Indiana Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Fighting For Drunk Diriving Accident Victims in Indiana
Drunk driving accidents in Indiana present serious concerns for both public safety and legal accountability. Indiana’s legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08% for drivers over 21. For commercial drivers, the limit is even stricter at 0.04%. Individuals under 21 must adhere to an even lower limit of 0.02%. Penalties for violating these laws range from hefty fines to significant imprisonment terms, which underscore the state's zero-tolerance policy toward drunk driving. Awareness of these laws is crucial, as they form the basis for legal actions following an incident.
In addition to criminal penalties, Indiana provides avenues for victims to seek compensation through civil means. The personal injury legal process allows victims to pursue damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Engaging a dedicated drunk driving accident attorney in Indiana is vital for navigating this process, ensuring that victims can pursue full compensation under state law. Our firm is committed to guiding you through every step.
Call Alvarez Law Offices today at (219) 300-5204 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our drunk driving accident attorneyin Indiana.
Common Causes of Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving accidents can stem from a variety of factors. Understanding these can help underscore the importance of seeking legal support.
- Increased Reaction Time: Alcohol impairs cognitive function, causing delayed reflexes and impaired decision-making.
- Impaired Judgment: Drunk drivers often misjudge distances, speeds, and the movements of other vehicles.
- Overconfidence: Intoxication tends to elevate confidence levels unwarrantedly, resulting in reckless driving behavior.
Intoxication can also lead to decreased coordination and difficulty in controlling a vehicle, which significantly raises the risk of an accident. This is often compounded by a driver's reduced ability to interpret traffic signals and road signs accurately. Understanding these causes equips victims with the knowledge necessary to bolster their legal claims and encourages proactive steps toward securing experienced legal representation.
Why Choose Alvarez Law Offices?
At Alvarez Law Offices, we stand out for our unique combination of personalized service and extensive experience. Our Indiana clients choose us because:
- Treat Clients Like Family: We provide personal attention and direct access to our attorneys, fostering a supportive environment.
- Impressive Track Record: Our firm has recovered over $1 billion in compensation, reflecting our dedication to top-tier legal representation.
- Nationwide Presence: With our widespread reach, we are equipped to handle legal matters in all 50 states, leveraging over 200 years of combined legal experience.
Our commitment extends beyond just securing compensation; we are dedicated to restoring the lives of those affected by drunk driving incidents. By choosing Alvarez Law Offices, clients gain peace of mind knowing their cases are in capable hands, allowing them to focus on recovery while we handle the complexities of the legal matter.
We've Recovered Billions for Clients
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$15 Million Semi-Truck Accident
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$8.5 Million Semi-Truck Accident
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$4 Million Steel Mill Explosion
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$3.55 Million Injured Tradesmen/Steelworker
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$3 Million Prescription Medical Defect
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$2.5 Million Amputation in Illinois
Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident
An accident caused by a drunk driver can be a traumatic experience. Knowing the right steps to take can help protect your rights and strengthen your legal case:
- Ensure Safety: Check for injuries and move to a safe location if possible. Call 911 immediately to report the accident.
- Document the Scene: Use your cellphone to take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damages, and road conditions.
- Exchange Information: Gather contact and insurance details from all parties involved, including potential witnesses.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if injuries aren’t apparent, see a healthcare professional to document any possible injuries.
- Consult a Drunk Driving Accident Attorney: Contact Alvarez Law Offices at (219) 300-5204 for expert guidance on your legal options.
Immediately after a drunk driving accident, obtaining a copy of the police report is crucial. This document provides an unbiased account of the incident and is invaluable for any potential legal proceedings. It’s also beneficial to keep a detailed log of any medical expenses or treatments to ensure comprehensive compensation claims. Navigating the aftermath can be daunting, but having a structured approach alleviates stress and protects your interests.
At Alvarez Law Offices, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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The office staff was always polite answering the phones. The paralegals are always there to answer my questions through email or by phone calls it may have taken time to get back to me but just had to be patient. The legal secretary called to go over and make sure I understood what and how it was going to be finalized. Attorney Steve Alvarez not settling and making sure he went the extra mile for me.- Brandy F.
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Everyone that I have spoken with at Alvarez has been polite, positive, & professional. These interactions have inspired my confidence in this firm. It’s reassuring when you’re not well to have a team like this on your side. My attorney, Steven Alvarez a great communicator, very helpful, and kind. He has already been a huge help. I’m grateful I have Alvarez Law working on my behalf.- Lilly P.
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I recommend the Alvarez Law Office; Friendly, helpful, and needful advice and also very knowledgeable regarding workman's comp claims. I appreciated their professional representation and skill.- Faith F.
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Got me more money back than I expected for my injuries! Thanks Alvarez law firm. You guys are awesome!!!- Jerry G.
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The whole entire staff IS GREAT from the front desk to the top. Very nice very friendly honest and reliable!- Joseph L.
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Very pleased with this law firm Brandon has kept me updated throughout my case. Brandon and Nicole are Rock Star's. I would definitely encourage anyone to use this law firm. If you want a Rock Star lawyer then Brandon Morford at Alvarez Law that's the guy you need.- James C.
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- Hailey S.
Brandon was great at getting back to me and answering all of my questions. It was nice having someone that would answer 24-7 and Attorney Alvarez got me a great resolution on my case.
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The Alvarez Law Office helped me with a personal injury case and did a superb job. Everyone from the office staff to Walter Alvarez are very personable and friendly. My experience was great. Shout out to Steven Alvarez for a great job! Thank you so much!- Marci W.
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My experience with the Alvarez Law office was outstanding. They took my case and completed it in a timely manner. Ms. Theresa was outstanding with my case and made sure that I had everything I needed. If anyone needs a law firm that would fight for you like no other this is the Law firm for you. Thank you Anna Gallo- Anna G.
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I was in an awful wreck in January and I contacted Mr. Alvarez. He has been such a great attorney but an even better friend! From checking up on me and making time for calls with both of our busy schedules. I can honestly say in an awful circumstance Steve Alvarez did his absolute best at all times. I Highly recommend this attorney to anyone!!! Thank you- Collin S.
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This is a firm you want on your side. They did an amazing job on my car accident case. They really are 24-7. Brandon answered all my questions promptly even on the weekends. Steven got me an amazing settlement. He is the man! He even got my medicals lowered. This is a powerhouse lawyer you want on your side.- Moses V.
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The Alvarez Law Office helped me settle a workers compensation case. I am very pleased with the results thus far! Brandon along with the paralegal staff have been very professional and friendly. If you are in need of legal representation, consider Alvarez Law Office. Thank you so much!- Laura J.
What Compensation Can I Collect in a Personal Injury Lawsuit?
The purpose of a personal injury lawsuit or claim is to obtain compensation for various types of injuries suffered in connection with an accident or other type of event, such as a dog bite. Both Illinois and Indiana allow plaintiffs to seek specific types of compensation.
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Medical ExpensesSevere injuries in an accident may require serious, lengthy, and expensive medical treatment. Under personal injury law, you can ask a judge or jury to award you the amount you’ve paid out of pocket to recover from the accident. This would include expenses for hospital care, including surgery, follow-up doctor’s visits, physical or emotional therapy, medications, medical devices to assist in recovery, and other items.
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Lost WagesSevere injuries from an accident may make it impossible for you to work. Your personal injury claim can request compensation for lost wages. This includes the wages lost while you’re out of work recovering from your injuries and for missed shifts to attend follow-up doctor or rehabilitation appointments. You may be able to seek a lump sum for your future lost wages if the injury interferes with your ability to work.
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Pain & SufferingIn addition to those out-of-pocket and easily quantifiable losses, personal injury law allows plaintiffs to seek compensation for more subjective non-economic damages. This category includes amounts for physical pain, discomfort, and emotional distress. Juries in libel cases will often have to consider awarding amounts for emotional distress, as libel involves damage to someone’s reputation.
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Property DamageRequests for compensation in personal injury lawsuits aren’t limited to bodily harm. Plaintiffs in Illinois and Indiana can also seek money if an incident damaged or destroyed a piece of personal property, such as a vehicle or house. The compensation would cover the cost of replacing or repairing that property.
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Punitive DamagesSometimes personal injury cases involve extreme examples of negligence or recklessness — for instance, driving down a residential street at high speed. In those cases, plaintiffs may be able to ask for punitive damages to punish the defendant and send a larger message about their behavior.
Indiana's Unique Challenges & Resources
Indiana's diverse landscape and infrastructure present unique challenges in drunk driving prevention and post-accident management. Key highways like I-65 and I-70 often witness heavy traffic, increasing the risk of incidents when impaired driving is involved.
For assistance, Indiana residents can turn to local resources such as the Indiana Department of Transportation or the Indiana State Police for traffic reports and legal updates. These entities work in tandem with legal professionals to offer comprehensive post-accident support. At Alvarez Law Offices, we integrate this local knowledge to reinforce our legal strategies, ensuring informed and effective representation.
Urban areas like Indianapolis face a unique set of challenges with higher traffic volumes and more complex road networks. This increases the likelihood of accidents occurring at high-risk times, such as late nights and weekends, when instances of impaired driving tend to spike. Leveraging local data and insights, our team at Alvarez Law Offices remains poised to address these regional challenges, ensuring nuanced and effective legal representation for our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drunk Driving Accidents
What Damages Can I Recover After a Drunk Driving Accident?
Victims of drunk driving accidents in Indiana may recover various damages, including compensatory (economic and non-economic) damages. Economic damages cover quantifiable losses such as medical expenses, property damage, and lost wages. Non-economic damages address pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship. In some cases, punitive damages may also be awarded to punish the drunk driver and serve as a deterrent. Each legal case is unique, and consulting with a skilled drunk driving accident lawyer in Indiana can provide clearer insights into specific entitlements within Indiana’s legal framework.
Furthermore, Indiana's wrongful death statutes might come into play in severe instances. If a drunk driving accident results in a fatality, certain family members may seek compensation for funeral expenses, loss of income support, and damages for mental anguish. These complex legal dynamics necessitate partnering with a dedicated legal team to maximize potential recovery.
How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit?
In Indiana, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including those arising from drunk driving accidents, is typically two years from the date of the accident. Failing to file within this timeframe can prevent victims from pursuing compensation. It is crucial to act promptly and consult with a drunk driving accident attorney to ensure all legal deadlines are met, preserving your right to seek justice and compensation for your injuries.
Special considerations may apply, such as in cases involving minors or individuals with incapacitating injuries, potentially tolling or extending the filing deadline. A legal professional can help identify these exceptions and ensure timely filing of all necessary legal documents.
Can I Sue if I Was a Passenger in the Drunk Driver's Vehicle?
Yes, passengers injured in an accident where the driver was intoxicated have the right to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. As a passenger, you can file a claim against the driver for negligence. Additionally, if other parties (such as another impaired vehicle operator) contributed to the accident, you may seek compensation from them as well. Legal representation is essential in analyzing the nuances of your case and determining the best approach for securing compensation.
Understanding the insurance dynamics, such as uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, is also essential. This type of coverage may provide additional avenues for compensation if the responsible driver lacks sufficient insurance. Seeking legal advice helps passengers explore all possible options for recovery.
What Evidence Is Needed for a Drunk Driving Accident Legal Case?
Successful drunk driving accident cases rely on comprehensive evidence collection. Key pieces include the police report, eyewitness testimonies, photographs of the scene and vehicle damage, and any available video footage. Medical records documenting injuries and expert witness statements also strengthen your claim. An experienced drunk driving accident lawyer in Indiana can assist in gathering this evidence, ensuring that it aligns with legal standards and effectively supports your claim.
It is also beneficial to collect any available breathalyzer or field sobriety test results from the arresting officers. These can be instrumental in establishing the drunk driver's negligence and liability. Additionally, any communication records, such as phone calls or texts around the time of the accident, may provide critical insights into distracted or impaired driving behaviors.
How Does Comparative Fault Affect My Case in Indiana?
Indiana adheres to a modified comparative fault rule, meaning your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault in the accident. If you are found to be 51% or more at fault, you cannot recover damages. This highlights the importance of establishing clear liability and countering any claims of negligence on your part. Engaging a knowledgeable attorney is crucial in navigating these complexities, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive the appropriate compensation.
In multi-vehicle accidents, this rule plays a critical role in determining liability among the parties. Thorough accident reconstruction and expert testimony may be necessary to delineate fault accurately. Working with legal professionals adept at handling these intricacies can significantly optimize the outcomes of your legal proceedings.
Contact Our Drunk Driving Accident Attorney in Indiana Today
Dealing with the aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to face it alone. Our dedicated team at Alvarez Law Offices provides the support you need, backed by extensive experience and a proven track record in recovering substantial compensation. We treat every client with care and respect, offering personalized attention and open communication throughout the process. If you’re in Indiana and need skilled legal guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Choosing Alvarez Law Offices means opting for a firm that values integrity, commitment, and results. We stand ready to be your advocate, fighting for your rights with unwavering determination. Trust us to guide you through your legal challenges and help rebuild your future. Contact us now for a personalized consultation.
Schedule your free consultation today by calling (219) 300-5204 and take the first step toward securing the justice and compensation you deserve with our Indiana drunk driving accident lawyer.
