Drunk Driving Accidents Overview

Were you injured by a drunk driver in OKC?

It is well known that driving drunk is illegal and a very bad idea – but in Oklahoma City, drivers and their passengers continue to be injured or killed by drunk drivers at a staggering rate. As reported by KOCO News, the city has had record-high numbers of drunk driving accidents – the highest in over a decade. More than 60% of the fatal crashes in the state are caused by alcohol or drug-intoxicated drivers. When driving in Oklahoma City, all of us are at risk of injury or death when sharing the road with a drunk driver.

If you or a loved one has been harmed in a DUI-related crash, our experienced drunk driving accident lawyers in Oklahoma City at the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote can help investigate the accident, determine liability, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

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What types of injuries are common in drunk driving accident cases?

The injuries sustained in a drunk driving accident are often severe, catastrophic, or fatal. An impaired driver may drive the wrong way on a street or highway, swerve widely from lane to lane, speed, drive aggressively and recklessly, or cross a median, causing a head-on collision – with innocent people paying the price. The types of injuries sustained in these accidents include:

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I was in my first serious car accident earlier this year and felt it was best to seek out the help of an attorney. James Belote took on my case, which also meant he took on all of my worries. He was extremely helpful, caring, and responsive from our first meeting all the way until I had a check in-hand. He was quick to answer all of my questions about the process and he never stopped advocating for me throughout the entire process. I would highly recommend working with James and his team.

K.W.

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What damages can be recovered in drunk driving injury and death claims?

Our firm seeks the full scope of damages in drunk driving accident claims and lawsuits. The types of damages that can be pursued in such a case include the following:

Economic damages

These are damages that compensate the injured individual for the financial losses that can be directly tied to the drunk driver’s actions. Examples of economic damages include medical bills, lost wages, lost earning capacity, medications, transportation, skilled nursing care, and other out-of-pocket expenses.

Non-economic damages

These are damages that compensate the plaintiff for losses that are more difficult to quantify, such as pain and suffering, emotional anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, disfigurement, and other very real but intangible losses.

Punitive damages

Unlike economic and non-economic damages, punitive damages are not designed to compensate the plaintiff for losses. Instead, they are intended to punish the defendant for their actions and to deter others from engaging in similar behavior. Punitive damages are typically only awarded in cases where the defendant’s behavior was particularly egregious or reckless.

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Why choose the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote in Oklahoma City?

If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident caused by someone else’s reckless choices, the Law Offices of Stipe & Belote is here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Our experienced personal injury lawyers offer:

  • Award-winning representation
  • Free, no-obligation consultations
  • Over 50 years of combined legal experience
  • Millions recovered for clients

When you work with our attorneys, we carefully examine the circumstances of your drunk driving accident to identify all responsible parties. We collaborate with medical, economic, and investigative experts to accurately determine the full value of your claim.

We handle a wide range of drunk driving cases, including those involving serious injuries, wrongful death, uninsured drivers, and complex liability issues. Our team is committed to supporting you throughout the process and working to achieve a fair recovery. Contact our drunk driving accident attorneys in Oklahoma City today to get started.

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Drunk Driving Accident FAQs

What are the legal consequences of driving under the influence (DUI)?

If the driver refuses a breathalyzer, will this help my case?

What legal options are available to individuals injured in accidents caused by drunk drivers?

Can I sue the bar that served alcohol to the drunk driver responsible for my car accident?

How does the severity of the injuries impact the legal process in drunk driving cases?

What role does insurance coverage play in drunk driving accident claims?

How does the legal process typically unfold for drunk driving accident claims?

What resources and support are available to individuals and families affected by drunk driving accidents?

What are the legal consequences of driving under the influence (DUI)?

Driving under the influence (DUI) can result in serious legal consequences, including license suspension, fines, mandatory alcohol education programs, and potential imprisonment. Repeat offenses and DUI-related accidents can lead to more severe penalties.

If the driver refuses a breathalyzer, will this help my case?

While a driver's refusal of a breathalyzer test may complicate the legal process, it does not necessarily guarantee a favorable outcome for your case. Other evidence, such as field sobriety tests, officer observations, and witness testimony, can still be used to establish impairment.

What legal options are available to individuals injured in accidents caused by drunk drivers?

Individuals injured in accidents caused by drunk drivers may have legal options to seek compensation for their damages. This can include filing personal injury claims and pursuing punitive damages due to the reckless behavior of the intoxicated driver.

Can I sue the bar that served alcohol to the drunk driver responsible for my car accident?

In some cases, individuals injured in accidents caused by drunk drivers may have grounds to pursue a dram shop liability claim against the establishment that served alcohol to the impaired driver. Dram shop laws vary by state and typically require evidence that the establishment knowingly served alcohol to an already visibly intoxicated individual.

How does the severity of the injuries impact the legal process in drunk driving cases?

The severity of the injuries resulting from a drunk driving accident can significantly impact the legal process, as it may necessitate extensive medical evidence, expert testimony, and a thorough evaluation of the long-term impact on the victim's life. This often requires a comprehensive approach to building a solid case and advocating for the full extent of the damages suffered.

What role does insurance coverage play in drunk driving accident claims?

Insurance coverage plays a critical role in drunk driving accident claims, as it can provide financial protection for individuals who have sustained injuries due to the actions of an intoxicated driver. Understanding the complexities of insurance coverage, including the potential for compensation for medical expenses and pain and suffering, is essential for maximizing the benefits available to the injured party.

How does the legal process typically unfold for drunk driving accident claims?

The legal process for drunk driving accident claims often involves conducting a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances of the accident, including gathering evidence, assessing liability, and determining the full extent of the damages. Subsequently, negotiations with insurance companies or at-fault parties may occur to reach a fair settlement. If a settlement cannot be reached, the case may proceed to litigation, potentially culminating in a trial to resolve the matter.

What resources and support are available to individuals and families affected by drunk driving accidents?

Individuals and families affected by drunk driving accidents can access a range of resources and support services, including medical care, rehabilitation programs, victim advocacy services, and legal representation from experienced drunk driving accident attorneys. At Stipe & Belote Personal Injury Law, we bring experience and compassion to every case and are standing by to guide you through this process. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a consultation today.

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