When you get behind the wheel or are a passenger in a car, you expect that others on the road will make responsible choices and follow the laws. When someone chooses to break these rules by operating a vehicle while intoxicated, it puts you and others at risk of injury or even death. While nothing can truly turn back the clock after a collision, Illinois law provides recourse for victims of drunk driving car accidents in Schaumburg.
If you were harmed in a crash caused by someone who was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you may be able to hold them accountable. Our experienced auto accident attorneys at The Kryder Law Group provide an unparalleled dedication to fighting for those injured in these types of wrecks. We understand the challenges you may be facing and have the resources to help support you in this journey for justice.
What Are the Risks of Drinking and Driving?
Alcohol and other mind-altering substances—both prescribed and unprescribed—can greatly impair someone’s ability to operate a vehicle. For example, alcohol often has a depressive effect on someone’s nervous system and cognition. As a result, the person may have seriously slowed down response times to obstacles and changing conditions on the road.
Likewise, drugs—such as some anxiety medications or painkillers—can also make it harder for someone to concentrate and react appropriately. For example, they may overcorrect when faced with a sudden curve in the road they were not expecting. Or they might go much faster or slower than they should or have difficulty staying in their lane.
Anytime the driver has problems with the physical and mental tasks involved in operating a car, there is a potential for a collision. Our Schaumburg attorneys have helped many people who fell victim to motor vehicle crashes caused by drunk driving. We are well-versed in these laws and stay up to date to make sure we can be effective advocates for our clients.
Who Can File a Civil Lawsuit Against a Drunk Driver?
Under Illinois law, someone may qualify to bring a lawsuit if they were hurt in a crash caused by someone else. They would need to prove the other driver was the reason the incident occurred (e.g., because of driving while intoxicated). Additionally, they must show that they experienced harm (e.g., physical or financial injuries) due to the incident.
So, if you were in an auto wreck caused by drunk driving in Schaumburg, the first step in figuring out if you can bring a claim is to determine the reason the crash happened. For example, you might establish that the other driver was swerving and drifted in front of your oncoming car.
Additionally, you must prove that you experienced injuries because of the accident. For example, you may present records showing that you hurt your arm, leg, or neck or that your personal property was damaged in the incident.
Call a Schaumburg Attorney After an Automobile Wreck Caused by Drunk Driving
When an intoxicated driver harms you in a bike, pedestrian, or motor vehicle crash, you may be able to recoup your losses by taking legal action against them. Some of what you may be able to recover includes money for lost wages, medical care, pain and suffering, and property damage. But you do not have to do this alone.
Our firm strives to provide unmatched legal assistance to victims of drunk driving car accidents in Schaumburg. We know how confusing and overwhelming this situation can feel, and we try to help you move through this process with confidence. Contact our team of compassionate personal injury attorneys at The Kryder Law Group today to schedule your free, no-obligation consultation.
(312) 223-1700