Sevierville DUI Accident Lawyer
Even with the efforts of Mothers Against Drunk Driving and other similar nonprofits or governmental agencies, drunk driving is still prevalent on the roads, and accounts for nearly one third of all traffic fatalities across the nation. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, an estimated two out of three people will be involved in a drunk driving crash during their lifetime. A drunk driver’s choices can cause property damage, injuries, and even death. If you or someone you love has been hit by a drunk driver, a compassionate personal injury attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve for pain and suffering, medical expenses, and much more. Contact a Sevierville DUI accident lawyer at the law offices of Fox, Farley, Willis & Burnette for more information.
What is Considered Drunk Driving?
The laws nationwide state that an adult operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) above .08 percent is driving drunk. If the driver is a minor the BAC limit becomes .02 percent and if the driver has a commercial driver’s license the BAC limit is .04 percent. However, it is possible to get a DUI in Tennessee even with a legal blood alcohol concentration (below 0.08 percent). For example, if a police officer who arrives at the scene of a crash that they believe was caused by alcohol, they can still issue a DUI.
How Does the Amount of Compensation Get Decided?
Each case is unique based on the individuals involved in the crash, the injuries sustained, and the applicable insurance policies. If you have been hit by an intoxicated driver, you can receive compensation for the following:
- Medical costs incurred due to injuries;
- Lost wages due to injuries that impact your ability to work;
- Vehicle damage and repair costs to any property;
- Permanent disability;
- Pain and suffering; and
- Punitive damages.
Unlike other compensation, which is meant to make someone whole after being involved in a crash, punitive damages are meant to punish the liable party and deter them from future misconduct. According to Tennessee Code § 29-39-104, a person can seek punitive damages if they can provide, “Clear and convincing evidence that the defendant against whom punitive damages are sought acted maliciously, intentionally, fraudulently or recklessly.’ It is possible to seek punitive damages for a crash involving a drunk driver. A knowledgeable DUI attorney can assess your case and help you recover your financial losses after being hit by a drunk driver.
The Sevierville DUI Accident Lawyers at Fox, Farley, Willis & Burnette Can Help You
If you have been hit by a drunk driver your world has been shaken. You may have lost your primary means of transportation, been hospitalized, or emotionally traumatized. A compassionate attorney can make the legal process less overwhelming by answering your questions, negotiating with insurance companies, and if necessary, representing you in court. Contact the Sevierville DUI lawyers at Fox, Farley, Willis & Burnette for a free initial consultation about your case.
