As much as 38 percent of all car accident deaths in South Carolina are related to drunk driving, and more than 1,900 people have died over the last five years as a result of DUI accidents. DUI is an umbrella term that covers the act or crime of driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs. When you experience being the victim of a DUI accident, call our attorney right away.
The menace that driving under the influence causes to victims may extend over the duration of their lifetime. From minor accidents to severe ones and even wrongful death, the effect of a DUI accident is often tragic. To keep the driveway safe in Columbia, SC, drunk or drugged drivers have to be held liable for their actions – not only in the criminal justice system but also in a civil court.
Victims of DUI accidents in South Carolina deserve all the comfort they can get. If you or a loved one has been harmed by a DUI driver in Columbia, our Columbia car accident legal team at Marc Brown Law Firm will be your legal stronghold and make sure that justice is served.
Why Hire A Columbia DUI Accident from Marc Brown Law Firm?
- Expertise and Experience
Attorney Marc Brown brings extensive experience to the table, having previously worked for a national law firm defending large corporations and insurance companies. This background provides him with unique insights into how insurance companies evaluate claims and what factors influence their settlement decisions. Attorney Marc Brown’s success in handling DUI accident cases showcases his ability to achieve favorable outcomes for his clients, leveraging the experience and resources typical of a larger firm while maintaining the personalized attention of a boutique practice.
- Client-Centered Approach
At Marc Brown Law Firm, clients receive personalized attention and care. We are dedicated to being available to our clients 24/7, ensuring that their concerns are addressed promptly. Positive testimonials from previous clients highlight our firm’s commitment to providing effective and compassionate legal representation. This client-centered approach ensures that each case is handled with the utmost diligence and respect, fostering trust and confidence in our legal services.
- No Upfront Fees
Our clients are not required to pay any fees upfront, and our law firm assumes all financial risks associated with pursuing the case. This means that our clients only pay if we successfully secure compensation for them. This approach also ensures that our law firm is fully committed to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients without adding financial stress during an already challenging time.
DUI accident claims in South Carolina
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 44% of all traffic fatalities in South Carolina in one recent year were caused by alcohol-impaired driving.
A driver will be considered to be ‘under the influence’ in South Carolina if the blood alcohol content (BAC) is “0.08 percent” or higher. Generally, a driver impaired or under the influence of drugs will also be considered incapable of driving.
A drunk driver will be held responsible for any accident resulting from DUI. This is regardless of whether or not the driver is above the legal limit.
Depending on the nature of the accident and how skilled your DUI accident lawyer is, other persons may also be held responsible for your injuries. These persons include:
- The social hosts. This is for instances where a host served alcohol to minors.
- Businesses that serve alcohol. The liability of certain businesses that serve alcohol is a known principle from the popular ‘dramshop’ laws.
Common Factors Contributing to DUI Accidents
DUI accidents in Columbia, South Carolina, often stem from a combination of excessive drinking, drug use, and a general failure to recognize impairment levels. Alcohol impairs a driver’s cognitive functions and motor skills, leading to reckless driving behaviors, such as:
- Speeding
- Erratic lane changes; and
- Failure to obey traffic signals
Drug use, whether involving illegal substances or prescription medications, can similarly impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Typical Injuries and Long-term Effects on Victims
A DUI accident can result in victims suffering severe injuries, like:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Broken bones; and
- Internal organ injuries
Victims often experience long-term physical effects, including chronic pain and permanent disabilities. Emotional impacts, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, are also common.
These injuries can lead to significant lifestyle changes, affecting a victim’s ability to work, engage in daily activities, and maintain relationships, thereby having profound and lasting consequences on their overall quality of life.
Recovering compensation in a DUI accident
Victim or loved ones of a DUI accident are entitled to financial compensation from the intoxicated or impaired driver. If it is proved that the actions of the drunk driver were the direct cause of your injuries, you’re entitled to financial compensation for:
- Medical bills resulting from the accident, including future treatments.
- The ‘pain and suffering’ as a result of the accident.
- Payment of lost wages. This also includes consideration for future loss of income as a result of reduced capacity to work.
In a lot of cases too, the liable drunk driver will be required to pay you additional ‘punitive damages’ to prevent future wrongdoing and punish the defendant. This ‘damages’ may be given to you if the actions of the driver were found to be egregiously reckless and likely to cause serious harm. Though usually awarded by the court, a Columbia semi-truck accident lawyer can factor this in when negotiating your compensation with the liable parties.
How an Experienced DUI Accident Lawyer Can Help
- A Thorough Case Evaluation and Investigation
An experienced Columbia DUI accident lawyer begins with a thorough case evaluation and investigation. This process involves gathering critical evidence such as the police report, witness statements, and medical records. They may also employ accident reconstruction experts to recreate the incident, providing a clear understanding of the events leading to the accident. This approach helps build a strong case by establishing fault and demonstrating the extent of your damages.
- Legal Representation
The claims process can be complex, but a skilled DUI accident lawyer can provide you with essential guidance and representation. They will advocate on your behalf, ensuring your rights are protected throughout the legal process. This includes negotiating with the liable insurance companies for a fair settlement and representing you in court if necessary. A lawyer’s expertise can ensure that all legal avenues are explored to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.
- Help Securing Compensation
Securing compensation is a critical role of a DUI accident lawyer. In the event of serious injury or death, a fatal injury lawyer in Columbia will help you pursue various types of compensation, including punitive damages, which may be sought to penalize the offender and deter similar conduct in the future. A good Columbia DUI accident lawyer will ensure that all potential sources of compensation are identified and pursued to secure the financial relief and justice you deserve.
Get in touch with an experienced Columbia DUI Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one gets injured in a DUI accident in Columbia, you are entitled to maximum financial compensation. Only an experienced Columbia DUI accident victim lawyer can get you this. Our legal team at Marc Brown Law Firm is ready to get you or your loved one the due compensation you deserve.