Tennessee readers know drunk driving is an irresponsible and completely preventable type of negligent and reckless driving. There is no excuse for getting behind the wheel while under the influence of either drugs or alcohol. Drunk driving can greatly increase the chance of a serious car accident.
If you suffered because of a drunk driving accident, you may know you have grounds to seek compensation through a personal injury claim. You have the right to pursue legal recourse for your injuries and financial losses, as well as hold the liable driver accountable for your pain and suffering.
How do you know if you have a case?
It can be difficult to determine if you have a valid civil claim after a car accident caused by a drunk driver. To build a successful claim, you must be able to clearly establish liability and present evidence of fault. In order to prove that your suffering was the direct result of the negligence of another party, there must be a clear link between your case and any of the following elements:
- Breach of duty: The other driver violated his or her duty to avoid driving while intoxicated, leading to the accident.
- Cause in fact: This focuses on the cause of your injuries, which was the choice of a person to drive while drunk.
- Damages: There is clear evidence that the drunk driver was the cause of your physical injuries and your financial losses.
Building a strong case can be a complex process, even if you believe it is very clear who is to blame for your suffering. As an accident victim, you have the right to hold liable parties accountable for what you endured as a result of their actions. Many drunk driving victims find it helpful to reach out for legal guidance as they seek to understand their legal options.
Learning about your legal options
A drunk driving accident can change your life. It can leave you with debilitating injuries, medical bills and other financial losses that affect you and your family for years to come. There is no time to lose in exploring the legal options that may be available to you.
If you think you might have a case, you may find it helpful to seek help as soon as possible after a drunk driving accident. You might feel overwhelmed by your circumstances, but you do not have to walk through this situation alone.