While any accident can be dangerous, DUI accidents may be especially catastrophic. You may be following all traffic laws and driving defensively, but the poor decision-making of someone else may leave you with lifelong injuries. This is where a DUI accident lawyer in Grand Rapids can help.
You deserve justice for your injuries. At White Law PLLC, we have helped our clients recover over $1.4 billion, and we are ready to put that experience to work for you. If you have been the victim of a DUI accident, a car accident lawyer in Grand Rapids may be able to help.
How DUI Accidents Happen in Grand Rapids
Driving under the influence (DUI) generally refers to a driver who is impaired due to the use of alcohol or other substances, illegal or not. DUI accidents can occur anywhere, but are often more likely to occur:
- At night or in the dark
- On weekends
- Near entertainment venues
- After large events
DUI accidents can be deadly, and oftentimes, drivers are not caught driving under the influence until an accident occurs. If you have been hit by a drunk driver, a drunk driving accident lawyer in Grand Rapids may be able to help.
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Why DUI Accidents Often Lead to More Severe Injuries
Due to reduced decision-making capacity, impaired drivers often cause more severe accidents than sober drivers. They are also less likely to brake or react quickly enough after an accident. Delayed reaction time can cause accidents to be more severe.
Drunk drivers may also be driving at higher speeds at the time of the collision. This can be a major contributing factor to severe injuries, increasing the likelihood of catastrophic injuries. A Grand Rapids personal injury lawyer may be able to evaluate your case and see what you are entitled to.
While driving impaired, drivers may be more likely to swerve or have vision problems, causing head-on collisions. Due to the direct impact, these accidents are particularly dangerous. If you have been hit by an impaired driver, a DUI accident attorney in Grand Rapids may be able to help you recover compensation that you are owed.
We’re not just lawyers. We’re passionate advocates who will ensure that your voice is heard and your rights are protected.
Injuries Commonly Seen in DUI Accident Cases
DUI crashes are often severe and life-changing. Injuries sustained can range from minor to severe. Common injuries seen in these accidents may include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Back and neck injuries
- Internal injuries
- Burns and other skin injuries
- Emotional and psychological trauma
These injuries can often affect victims in the long term, even if they are invisible. Working with a drunk driving accident attorney can help you to feel confident knowing that every aspect of your case has been evaluated and you are getting the full compensation you deserve.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
How Michigan Law Treats DUI Accident Cases
In Michigan, DUIs can have both civil and criminal consequences. The maximum bodily alcohol content (BAC) allowed is 0.08% for anyone above 21 and 0.02% for anyone under 21. (Impaired Driving Law). If a driver’s BAC is above 0.17%, they are considered high-BAC and have enhanced penalties compared to those who fall below that level.
Regardless of BAC numbers, an individual may be arrested if they show signs of impairment. Once it is shown that a driver is under the influence, they may have criminal charges put forth against them and they may be sued by those directly impacted by an accident.
If a driver has used any amount of illicit drugs, even if they show no signs of impairment, they are generally subject to the same penalties as someone driving drunk, with certain exemptions for medical marijuana cardholders.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
DUI Accidents Can Involve Additional Liability Beyond the Driver
There are scenarios where more than just the impaired driver is liable for the accident. Other liable parties can include:
- Bars or restaurants that overserve alcohol (MCL 436.1801)
- Social hosts in certain situations
- Employers if the driver was working
- Vehicle owners who allowed impaired driving
Determining if one of these parties is liable can be complex. Working with a Grand Rapids DUI accident lawyer can help you determine if there is cause to pursue a case against more than just the impaired driver.
Compensation Available to DUI Accident Victims
As the victim of a DUI accident, there are several items you may be eligible for in terms of compensation. Since every case is different, it is important that you consult with a Grand Rapids DUI accident attorney to ensure you are receiving the full benefits you are owed. Common items may include:
- Medical expenses and ongoing treatment
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
The severity of the crash and your injuries are major determinants in insurance companies’ decisions about what to offer. It is important that you document everything and do not accept any offers without speaking with an attorney.
A DUI Accident Lawyer Can Help
After a DUI accident, hiring an attorney is an important step in getting the justice you are owed. Your lawyer can help to collect evidence and build your case. They can speak with witnesses, hire experts, gather police reports, and coordinate with medical professionals.
While they handle the legal side, it is important that you receive proper medical care. Not only does this help protect you physically, but it does so legally as well. Prompt medical care helps tie your injuries directly to the accident and build a complete picture of whether your injuries will be long-term or not. They can also assist with items such as writing a victim impact statement for a drunk driving accident.
Having a dedicated attorney, like the team at White Law PLLC, can help you move through the legal system with confidence. Having an advocate on your team means you do not have to do this alone, and you can prioritize your recovery.
Speak With a DUI Accident Lawyer in Grand Rapids
At White Law PLLC, we understand the pain, both physical and emotional, that can come with being the victim of a DUI accident. We are here and ready to help you secure a fair settlement and help you pursue the justice you deserve. Contact us today for your free consultation to see how we can help.
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We Exceed Client Expectations.
