Have you been seriously injured by an intoxicated driver in Des Plaines, Illinois? If so, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries and damages. It is important to seek the help of an experienced Des Plaines drunk driving accident lawyer in our car accident law firm who can protect your rights and work for the justice you deserve.
What Is Drunk Driving under Illinois Law?
Illinois Driving Under the Influence laws (DUI) prohibit anyone from operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. By law, driver is considered legally intoxicated if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher.
How Does Alcohol Impair Driving?
Alcohol impairs driving in many ways. It can slow reaction time, decrease coordination, impair judgement and decision-making abilities, and affect vision and concentration. These effects make it extremely dangerous for anyone to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol.
How Does a Des Plaines, IL Car Accident Lawyer Prove Fault in a Drunk Driving Accident?
In order to hold a negligent driver accountable for a drunk driving accident, car accident attorneys must prove that they were negligent in causing the accident. This can include showing that the driver involved was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident and that this impairment directly resulted in the collision.
Experienced Des Plaines car accident lawyers gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and any breathalyzer or blood test results to prove negligence on the part of the driver.
Types of Compensation Available for Drunk Driving Accident Victims
When victims are injured in serious accidents, they may seek compensation depending on the specific circumstances the case. These can include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
Who Can Be Held Liable in Drunk Driving Cases?
Various parties may be held accountable for a car accident involving a drunk driver:
- Drunk drivers: The primary party responsible for the accident.
- Bars or restaurants: Under Illinois’ Dram Shop Act, establishments that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals can also be held liable for any accidents or injuries caused by that individual.
- Social hosts: If someone knowingly serves alcohol to a minor or an already intoxicated person at a private event, they may also be held responsible for alcohol-related crashes.
- Employers: In some cases, when accidents happen because an employee causes a drunk driving accident while on the job or after consuming alcohol at work-related events, their employer may also share liability.
Most Common Injuries from Injuries from a Drunk Driving Wreck
Drunk driving accidents can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which can be life-threatening or have long-lasting effects. Some common injuries from car accidents include:
- Head injuries including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Back and spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue injuries such as whiplash, strains, and sprains
Contact The Kryder Law Group, LLC Accident and Injury Lawyers for Help
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident caused by a drunk driver in Des Plaines, Illinois, contact our law offices to speak with one of our personal injury attorneys.
In a free consultation, we will review your case, describe the legal process which includes negotiating with the insurance company to pursue compensation for you.
Remember, the initial no-obligation meeting is free, and we work on a contingency basis, so you don’t pay unless we win your case. Don’t wait, contact us today for the help and justice you deserve.
(312) 223-1700