Drunk Driving Accident Injuries

 Posted on December 00, 0000 in Drunk Driving Accidents

Even with strict laws, drunk drivers continue to cause accidents and injure people every year. When a car accident involves a drunk driver, there are several issues you need to understand before trying to get compensated for your injuries.

The Claims Process

Some people mistakenly believe that it is easier to deal with a drunk driving accident case than a regular car accident. However, handling a claim is about more than just proving fault. Before you can successfully receive the compensation you deserve, you will have to prove that the drunk driver was the cause of your injuries. You will also have to prove how much the injuries impacted your life.

It is possible for an insurance company to agree with you on the cause of the accident and still fight you on the amount of damages you are seeking. You need the guidance of a knowledgeable attorney to navigate the personal injury claims process. Illinois only allows for a short time period to bring a personal injury claim. If you have been severely injured, you may not even be fully healed before it is time to protect your claim.

While most cases never go to trial, the better prepared you are to take a case to court the better your chances are of getting a fair settlement from the insurance company.

Who Is Responsible?

In the case of a drunk drivers, there may be one or more parties in addition to the driver that are responsible for the accident. Illinois law holds bars and other businesses that serve alcohol responsible for some of the damages caused by drunk drivers served at their establishments in some circumstances.

These cases are called dram shop cases. They are technical and require a deep knowledge of the law before they can be successfully pursued. Not every case with a drunk driver will also be a dram shop case. This is why you need to have your case reviewed by an attorney who understands all of the complexities of personal injury law. The insurance company has adjusters and attorneys with years of experience advising them, so you should have someone on your side fighting for you.

If a drunk driver has injured you, you need to speak with an experienced and tough Lake County personal injury attorney. Call the law firm of Salvi & Maher, LLP at 847-662-3303 today to schedule a consultation. You may only have a brief time to make your claim.

Source:

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=073500050K2-1116