You Shouldn’t Have to Pay for Someone Else’s Decision to Get Drunk and Then Get Behind the Wheel
Drunk drivers pose serious risks to everyone around them. Unfortunately, most people are unaware of these risks until it’s too late. It isn’t always easy to tell if someone is drunk behind the wheel; and, even if it seems like a driver might be drunk, it still might not be possible to get away from them in time to avoid a collision.
If you are dealing with the aftermath of a DUI accident in South Carolina, it is important that you speak with a local drunk driving accident lawyer promptly. Drunk drivers can—and should—be held accountable, and DUI accident victims and their families have clear legal rights. Luke Paulick handles DUI accident cases in Beaufort County, Jasper County, Colleton County, and Hampton County. If you have a claim, he can handle your claim on your behalf while helping you work through the recovery process. It costs nothing to learn about your legal rights, and you pay nothing unless Luke helps you obtain a settlement or verdict.
What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident in South Carolina
When dealing with the aftermath of someone else’s decision to get drunk and then get behind the wheel, it is important to do what you can to make sure the long-term consequences of the accident are no greater than necessary. With this in mind, there are a few steps you should take as soon as possible:
1. Take Care of Yourself
Your first priority after being injured in a drunk driving accident should be to take care of your medical needs. If you haven’t done so already, you should see a doctor right away. Tell your doctor that you were injured in a car accident, and do your best to describe your symptoms with as much detail as possible. Make sure you understand your doctor’s advice (don’t be afraid to ask questions), fill your prescriptions, and be sure to attend any follow-up appointments as scheduled.
2. Keep as Much Information as Possible
Since you may have a claim as a result of your accident, it will be important for you to keep as much information as possible. This includes keeping any photos or videos you have from the accident scene, keeping your copy of the police report (if you received one), and keeping your medical records and bills. You should also take 10 to 15 minutes to write down as many details as you can recall.
3. Talk to a Lawyer About Your Legal Rights
Protecting your legal rights after a drunk driving accident requires experienced legal representation. While you can deal with the insurance companies on your own, this doesn’t mean you should. An experienced drunk driving accident attorney will be able to help make sure you seek the full financial compensation you deserve while also making sure the insurance companies don’t take advantage of you.
Common Types of Accidents Caused By Drunk Drivers
Drunk drivers can—and do—cause all types of accidents. But, due to the effects of alcohol intoxication, certain types of drunk driving accidents tend to be more common than others. For example, some of the most common types of accidents caused by drunk drivers include:
- Head-on collisions
- Rear-end collisions
- Sideswipe accidents (lane-change and merging accidents)
- T-bone accidents at intersections
- Wrong-way accidents
But, all types of drunk driving accidents can entitle victims and their families to just compensation. As a result, no matter what happened, we strongly encourage you to schedule a time to speak with South Carolina drunk driving accident attorney Luke Paulick about your legal rights.
Common DUI Accident Injuries (for Which Victims Can Seek Just Compensation)
Just as victims and families can file claims for all types of accidents, they can also file claims for all types of injuries. This includes common DUI accident injuries such as:
- Bone fractures and dislocations
- Neck and back injuries
- Nerve damage and soft tissue damage
- Severe lacerations and burns
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
Here, too, these are just examples. If you are dealing with any consequences as a result of someone else’s decision to drink and drive, we want you to contact us so that we can help.
FAQs: Filing a Claim for a Drunk Driving Accident in South Carolina
What is the Time Limit for Filing a DUI Personal Injury Lawsuit?
Personal injury lawsuits in South Carolina are subject to a three-year statute of limitations. This means that you have three years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit in most cases. However, there are several important reasons to speak with a South Carolina drunk driving accident attorney as soon as possible.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for Drunk Driving Accidents?
While drunk drivers (and their insurance companies) can be held responsible for drunk driving accidents, victims and families will often have other claims as well. For example, bars, restaurants, and other establishments can be held responsible under South Carolina’s “dram shop” law, and party hosts, employers, rideshare companies, and various other entities can be held responsible in appropriate cases.
Can You Seek Punitive Damages for a DUI Accident in South Carolina?
Victims and family members who have claims for DUI accidents in South Carolina will often be entitled to punitive damages. Punitive damages are intended to ensure that people who make the mistake of drinking and driving don’t make the same mistake again.
Is There a Limit on Punitive Damages in South Carolina?
Yes, there is a limit on punitive damages in South Carolina. Under South Carolina law, punitive damages are capped at three times the amount of compensatory damages awarded or $500,000, whichever is greater.
Discuss Your Legal Rights with a South Carolina Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer for Free
If you or a member of your family has been involved in a drunk driving accident in South Carolina, we can help you move forward. To get started with a free, no-obligation consultation, give us a call at 843-379-3285 or tell us how we can reach you online today.