Representing Mobile DUI Accident Victims

In 2020, 158 people died in Alabama due to impaired drivers. Thousands more people suffered serious, though non-fatal injuries. Each of these accidents caused pain and financial distress to those impacted by the crash and stress and grief for their family members. Drunk driving is truly one of the greatest threats on the road today.

At Roger Varney Injury Law, we represent DUI accident victims as they seek compensation and justice. This is a very grueling journey. Although the state might file criminal charges against the driver, those harmed by a drunk driver can seek money damages in a civil suit. Call us to speak with a DUI accidents attorney in Mobile, Alabama today.

How to Hold DUI Drivers Accountable

A personal injury lawsuit is a civil suit people file when someone has injured them. If you were hurt by a drunk driver, you can probably sue for compensation to cover:

  • Cost of medical treatment for your injuries. Our clients suffer horrible fractures, head and neck injuries, and organ damage in drunk driving collisions.
  • Lost income. If you can’t work after the accident, you can receive compensation to make up for your lost wages.
  • Car and other property damage. The drunk driver should fix your car or replace it.
  • Pain and suffering and other intangible losses. Many accident victims experience searing pain, emotional distress, and post-traumatic stress disorder. A drunk driver should pay for this suffering.

This civil suit is independent of any criminal prosecution for DUI. Nevertheless, we might rely on the same evidence, such as the results of a chemical test.

Punitive Damages & DUI Accidents

You might also seek punitive damages against the drunk driver. Alabama Code § 6-11-20 allows punitive damages in a personal injury case when the defendant acted wantonly or with malice. This means the driver either intentionally hurt you or showed reckless disregard for your safety. You will need clear and convincing evidence of wanton or malicious behavior.

Drunk drivers usually satisfy these standards, and we often seek punitive damages against them. However, Alabama places a cap on punitive damages. Generally, someone suing for a physical injury can receive only three times their compensatory damages or $1,500,000, whichever is higher.

Dram Shop Claims

Alabama law also allows someone injured by a drunk driver to sue anyone who gave or sold the driver alcohol against the law. For example, if a bar or tavern serves a minor and this minor hits you, you can usually sue the bar. Dram shop claims give our clients another defendant to sue in their lawsuit, thus increasing the chances of a full financial recovery.

Contact a Mobile, Alabama DUI Accident Lawyer Today

DUI crashes are horrifying events. Many victims feel justifiable outrage that a person got behind the wheel after having too much to drink or after doing drugs. Roger Varner Injury Law will help translate that outrage into legal action.

If you call (833) 482-7637, we can discuss your chances of bringing a successful personal injury claim based on the crash. We provide consultations free and without obligation.