After a drunk driving accident, you may want to file a drunk driving claim without an attorney. It is clear the other driver was to blame, so you think it should be easy. This is not always the case.
We strongly recommend working with a drunk driving attorney who has the legal understanding and experience required to recover the damages you deserve. The other driver likely has their own attorney working to protect their client; you do not want to face this alone.
Should I File A Drunk Driving Claim Without an Attorney?
We strongly recommend working with a personal injury attorney to file your drunk driving claim. Choosing to file on your own could be a costly and time-consuming decision. Even if your legal case seems open and shut, you may recover far less on your own.
The insurance companies do not have your best interests at heart. They work hard to protect their bottom line and in the process may offer far less than you deserve. In addition, the driver may have their own legal team dedicated to protecting the rights of its client. You want a legal team who is committed to ensuring your right to compensation is protected.
Why You Should Choose a Dedicated Personal Injury Lawyer for Your Drunk Driving Case
Many victims consider working with a general practice lawyer or select their firm based on the percentage of the settlement the lawyer takes. These discounted firms can actually cost you money in the end.
Making a purchase based on price makes sense when the final product is the same. For example, if you are purchasing a car and find the same exact model at two dealerships, it makes sense to save money by purchasing the cheaper one.
However, choosing a discounted lawyer can be a costly mistake because a lower-priced attorney may not have the experience to recover maximum compensation. While the fees of a dedicated personal attorney may be a higher percentage, you may take home a larger final settlement, even after legal fees are deducted.
Damages You May Be Eligible to Recover in Your Drunk Driving Claim
Drunk driving accidents can result in traumatic physical injuries requiring long-term medical care. You may be unable to work for months or years, and your car may no longer be drivable. There is no way to estimate your final settlement, as many factors can impact the amount you are eligible to recover.
In most drunk driving cases, though, your lawyer will likely pursue the following types of damages:
- Cost to repair or replace your vehicle
- The cost of all medical care
- Long term medical treatment, such as physical therapy
- In-home nursing, if required
- Lost wages from missing time at work
- Future lost wages if you cannot return to work
- Decreased earning potential if you are unable to perform the same work
- Pain and suffering, including mental anguish
Your drunk driving attorney will gather evidence to support your claim and will consider all possible losses, including damages for the long-term impact of your injuries. This is one of several benefits to working with an attorney who has experience fighting for the rights of accident victims.
Statute of Limitations for Drunk Driving Cases
Like most personal injury cases, you have a limited amount of time to pursue damages through a drunk driving case. The time limit can be impacted by the details of your case.
Indiana State Law (IC 34-11-2) gives most personal injury case victims two years from the date of the accident to file a case in court. While two years may seem like enough time, building a case can be time-consuming. Investigating and gathering all the evidence may take months, and your lawyer may choose to work with accident reconstruction specialists.
For best results, we suggest contacting a drunk driving attorney as soon as you are physically able to give your legal team the time they need to build a solid case.
Protect Your Rights; Contact a Drunk Driving Attorney Today
The team at Sevenish Law Firm, P.C. is committed to fighting passionately for the rights of drunk driving accident victims. Contact our team today at (317) 636-7777 for a free review of your claim before the statute of limitations under Indiana law passes.