If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, it’s crucial to seek the help of an experienced Chicago drunk driving accident lawyer. They can answer your questions, and help you navigate the complex legal process to ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
In addition to representing victims of drunk driving accidents, our Chicago drunk driving accident attorneys also play an important role in holding those responsible accountable. This includes not only the driver who was under the influence, but also any establishments or individuals who may have over-served them alcohol. Contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation to discuss your case.
Drunk Driving Accidents in Illinois
According to a DUI report from the office of the Illinois Secretary of State, 292 people were killed in alcohol-related fatal crashes in the state in 2022. This accounts for 23% of traffic crash fatalities in Illinois that year.
Chicago DUI Accident Statistics
In Chicago, the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) reports that in 2022, there were 923 traffic crashes where the driver was either impaired by alcohol or had been drinking prior the accident. Of these crashes 302 resulted in injuries while 12 resulted in fatalities.
Common Injuries Sustained in Drunk Driving Accidents
Victims of drunk driving accidents often sustain serious and life-threatening injuries. These can include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
- Broken bones and fractures
- Burns and lacerations
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
- Wrongful death
In addition to the physical consequences, injury victims may also suffer emotional trauma and financial hardships from medical expenses, lost wages, and ongoing treatment.
Types of Compensation Available for Drunk Driving Victims
A skilled Chicago drunk driving accident lawyer can help you seek the following types of compensation for your injuries and losses:
- Medical bills and expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and earning potential
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of consortium (for spouses if the accident is fatal)
Seeking Justice for Victims of Drunk Driving Accidents
The aftermath of a drunk driving crash can be overwhelming and confusing. That’s why it’s important to have legal representation from a dedicated Chicago drunk driving accident attorney by your side to fight for your rights and help you achieve justice.
Who Is Liable for Injuries Caused by a Drunk Driver?
If you were involved in an accident where another driver hit you and their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was 0.08 or higher, exceeding the legal limit, they can be held accountable for the accident, your injuries, and any losses you incurred. Furthermore, they should face legal consequences for their DUI offense, as they were driving under the influence.
It’s important to note that the responsibility for compensation may not solely lie with the intoxicated driver who exceeded the legal blood alcohol limit.
Illinois Dram Shop Law
The state of Illinois follows the Liquor Control Act or the Dram Shop Law. Under this Illinois law, if a business sells alcohol to a minor or someone visibly intoxicated, the business owner could be held accountable after a DUI arrest if the person they served is the drunk driver responsible for a car accident.
Who Else Can Be Held Accountable?
Other parties who may be held responsible for a drunk driving car accident can include:
- Establishments that continue to serve alcohol to an already intoxicated individual
- Social hosts who provide alcohol to those under the legal drinking age or who are visibly intoxicated
- Employers who allow their employees to drive while under the influence of alcohol
A Chicago drunk driving accident attorney can thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident and determine any additional parties besides the drunk driver who may be liable.
How a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help Victims
Navigating the legal process after a drunk driving accident can be complex and overwhelming, especially if you’re dealing with injuries and trauma. That’s where an experienced attorney can make all the difference.
Maximizing the Value of Your Claim
When you pursue a personal injury claim for an accident caused by an impaired driver, the experienced attorneys from our law firm can help to maximize your case. They will:
- Investigate the accident to gather evidence such as the police report submitted by the police officer at the scene of the accident, witness statements, dui charges, and video surveillance footage
- Determine liability for your injuries and losses
- Negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company to ensure you receive a full and fair settlement
- Represent you in court if necessary and fight for your rights as a victim
Get Legal Help Today
Don’t hesitate to seek legal help after a drunk driving accident. Contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation about your drunk driving accident claim.
Time Limit for Pursuing a Lawsuit Against Drunk Drivers
Under Illinois law, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of the accident. This means you have two years to file a lawsuit against the responsible party for your injuries and losses. The same two year deadline applies to filing a wrongful death personal injury lawsuit under 740 ILCS 180/2.
It’s important to act quickly and contact a Chicago drunk driving accident attorney as soon as possible after the incident. The longer you wait, the more difficult it can be to gather evidence and build a strong case.
The Kryder Law Group, LLC Can Help You Recover From a Chicago Drunk Driving Car Accident
Contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation about your drunk driving accident claim. Our dedicated team of Chicago car accident attorneys has the experience and resources to help you seek the justice and compensation you deserve. Don’t wait, reach out to us today and let us fight for your rights as a victim of a drunk driving accident.
Contingency-Fee Basis
At The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers, we work on a contingency-fee basis for all personal injury cases. This means you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case and secure financial compensation for you. We understand that dealing with the aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be stressful and financially burdensome, which is why we offer this arrangement.
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