Accidents Caused By Drunk Drivers

At some point in their lives, an estimated 30 percent of Americans can expect to be a victim in an alcohol-related accident. That is a staggering statistic and means most families will be affected in some way by drunk driving.

It may be impossible to totally avoid an encounter on the road with a drunk driver, but you can take certain defensive actions to reduce your risk:

• Do not drink and drive: It is important to realize that many factors contribute to your inability to drive, even a single drink. The simple solution is to treat drinking and driving as completely independent activities. If you do one, do not do the other.
• Drive defensively: Operate under the assumption that any vehicle that is speeding or swerving within its lane or between lanes may be a sign of a drunk driver and is a danger to you and your passengers. Even if you have to pull over, maintain a safe distance behind these vehicles.
• Be more cautious when driving late night or over holidays: You cannot totally avoid driving during high-risk periods, such as late at night, and particularly holidays such as New Year’s Eve. But be extra vigilant when driving at these times.

Unique Legal Issues And Multiple Parties

Anyone injured in a DUI accident needs skilled legal support to deal with a number of specialized issues:

• DUI is both a criminal and civil law issue: Victims in drunk driving accidents typically file a civil suit against the liable party, who is likely to be facing criminal charges as well. Retaining an attorney from Purvis Thomson, LLP, can play a critical role in helping injury victims pursue compensation in court or through other legal means. And we may also be able to help you recover some of your damages within state compensation and victim assistance programs in the event the drunk driver does not carry state-required liability insurance.
• Liability may extend beyond the driver: The drunk driver may not be the only party liable for the accident. The bar or individual who supplied the liquor can be held liable as well.
• Punitive damages are possible: Drunk driving is taken seriously throughout the country. When an out-of-court settlement may be a reasonable option, an attorney may recommend taking the case before a jury in certain cases.

Accidents caused by drunk or stoned drivers can be especially complex for victims who need to seek full and fair compensation for their injuries. They need legal assistance from attorneys with specific experience in this complicated area of personal injury law.

Contact An Experienced Colorado Drunk Driving Accident Attorney

If you are involved in an auto accident, do not wait to get help from an experienced attorney at Purvis Thomson, LLP, in Boulder and Denver. Contact us immediately at 303-442-3366 or send us an email.

We operate on a contingent-fee basis — we are paid a percentage of the recovery only when we win a case.