Cave Creek Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

It can happen to anyone. In the blink of an eye, a drunk driver can destroy everything you have worked so hard for throughout your lifetime. Suddenly, you are injured, you can’t work, and your debts are piling up with no way to pay them. All because one person broke the law.

It doesn’t seem fair, and it isn’t. The drunk driver may face legal punishment, but that doesn’t help you pay your bills. However, a Cave Creek drunk driving accident lawyer can help you fight for the compensation you deserve through civil action. 

At Zanes Law, our Cave Creek car accident lawyers have helped recover over $500 million in awards and settlements for injured accident victims in Arizona. Call today to schedule a free consultation and tell us what happened. 

Does Insurance Pay for Drunk Driving Accidents in Arizona?

Arizona is an at–fault state for auto insurance, which means the party responsible for the accident must pay for the other driver’s damages. In this case, you can file a claim with the drunk driver’s auto insurance company, and they may cover your injuries.

However, some auto insurance providers may deny claims where their client has engaged in an intentional, harmful, or illegal act. Drinking and driving would certainly fall into that category, and you may have trouble recovering compensation. 

Our Cave Creek personal injury lawyers can evaluate your accident and help you choose your best course of action. We will negotiate for the compensation you need to cover your damages if there is an avenue to do so. If not, we can help you file a civil lawsuit and take the fight to court. 

For a free legal consultation with a drunk driving accidents lawyer serving Cave Creek, call (866) 499-8989

Is It Worth It to Sue a Drunk Driver?

A drunk driver may face stiff criminal penalties, including jail time and expensive fines, even if it is their first offense. Unfortunately, that doesn’t help you pay your bills. In addition to the criminal proceedings they must face, you can sue the drunk driver for damages. 

This may be your only recourse if their insurance company refuses to honor their policy because they had engaged in a criminal act. But is it worth it to file a civil suit against a drunk driver? Your Cave Creek drunk driving accident attorney can help you weigh the pros and cons.

In many cases, the answer is yes. If the drunk driver has the resources to do so, they, not you, should pay your damages. While the driver’s conviction may prevent you from recovering compensation from their auto policy, it makes it more likely you can win your case in civil court. 

Cave Creek Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Near Me (866) 499-8989

What Damages Can You Recover in a Drunk Driving Case?

Whether you choose to pursue damages from the drunk driver’s car insurance provider or seek restitution through the civil court system, your drunk driving accident lawyer in Cave Creek’s goal will be to recover maximum compensation. 

This amount is different for each case but may include expenses and economic damages such as:

• The cost of your emergency services like ambulance transportation and ER care
• Your doctor and specialist visit expenses
• The cost of medications prescribed due to your injuries sustained in the accident
• Your lost wages from time away from work
• Property damages, such as the cost of repairing your car

In some cases, you may also be able to recover non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, to account for the emotional and mental hardships you’ve suffered because of the accident. Your attorney can advise you if these apply to your case. 

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What to Do After an Accident With a Drunk Driver

The hours and days after a car accident are a significant time during which your actions can affect the outcome of your case. Some of the most important things you should do include:

Get Medical Attention

If you did not get medical attention after your accident, go and see your doctor as soon as possible. Adrenaline during the accident can mask pain, and you may mistake a major injury for soreness the next day. Some injuries have delayed symptoms that take time to appear. 

The most important thing is to ensure you are healthy and receiving the care you need. However, your medical records and attention to your health can also influence your legal case. Visit a doctor and follow their advice, including attending specialists and follow-up appointments. 

Talk to a Lawyer

Consult with an attorney as soon as you are able after your accident and before the at-fault driver’s insurance company can contact you. If their insurance plays a role, the insurance provider may attempt to find other ways to avoid paying your damages. 

Or, they may offer a lowball settlement that they know is far less than your case is worth. Let your attorney handle your case and deal with the insurance companies.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Even though Arizona is an at-fault state, you should report your accident to your insurance provider as soon as you can. Your provider may have stipulations that require you to report within a specific timeframe. 

Cooperate With Law Enforcement

While your damages are important, remember that this is also a criminal action by the drunk driver. Law enforcement may wish to speak with you. If you have any concerns, rely on your attorney for advice. 

Document Your Damages

Keep a record of all expenses related to your accident. This can help your attorney calculate your damages and ensure everything is included. Also, note how the accident has impacted you and your family emotionally and mentally, in case you can pursue non-economic damages. 

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Contact a Cave Creek Drunk Driving Accident Attorney

When people drink and drive, they risk not only their own lives but the lives of everyone else on the road. Through their negligence, they are liable for any injuries they cause, in addition to any legal consequences they will face. 

If a drunk driver injures you, you could be facing some tough times ahead. Our Cave Creek drunk driving accident attorneys can hold the driver accountable and fight for the compensation you need and deserve. 

At Zanes Law, our team has been standing up for injured victims since 2003. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help. 

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