Drunk drivers are among the most dangerous types of motorists on the road. They are incapable of making sound decisions and navigating their vehicles safely.
When you or your loved one has been in a Portland drunk driving car accident, you deserve compensation for your injuries. Our experienced car collision attorneys can identify the at-fault party and pursue damages. Contact Gideon Asen, LLC today to learn more.
How Drunk Drivers Cause Wrecks
Being intoxicated can lead motorists to make poor decisions behind the wheel, leading to a crash. Some of the ways that drinking too much can affect a person’s driving and cause a collision include the following:
- Speeding and aggressive driving
- Changing lanes without blinkers or checking for vehicles
- Falling asleep
- Running stop signs and red lights
- Failing to yield the right-of-way
- Swerving off the road
Evidence that a driver was intoxicated prior to a wreck is enough to prove negligence. A Portland lawyer who handles drunk driving cases can review a client’s incident and collect documentation.
Common Types of Injuries
A drunk driving collision in Portland can lead to a surplus of moderate to severe injuries. Unfortunately, it is typically the other party who suffers the most harm. Some of the most common types of injuries are:
- Cuts and lacerations
- Broken bones and fractures
- Burns
- Whiplash
- Internal organ damage
- Spinal cord trauma
- Brain injuries
- Death
When an alcohol-related crash causes the fatality of a loved one, a knowledgeable attorney can work with surviving family members to pursue a wrongful death claim. This can cover funeral expenses, loss of consortium, and emotional trauma.
Damages From Drunk Driving Accidents
Depending on the circumstances, a person injured by an intoxicated motorist may have several types of compensation available to them. Economic damages are medical bills, lost wages, and the opportunity to earn wages in the future. Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of life, and permanent impairment.
Under certain circumstances, an injured party may also be able to collect punitive damages, which are meant to punish egregious misconduct and deter it in the future.
Percentage of Fault in an Accident
Under state law, an injured person in a car wreck can still bring a claim for compensation so long as their percentage of fault is less than the other party. However, this amount will be reduced in proportion to their liability and completely barred if the individual is equally or more at fault.
Importance of Hiring Legal Counsel
By hiring a Portland lawyer for a drunk driving case, injured individuals can focus on recovering from the crash while their legal team deals with insurance companies and the defendant’s attorney.
A lawyer can handle the most stressful parts of the process, such as pursuing damages and providing evidence of negligence. Do not hesitate to reach out to Giden Asen, LLC today to find out more.
Work With a Portland Attorney After a Drunk Driving Car Accident
Individuals who choose to drive under the influence of alcohol should be held accountable for the harm they cause to others. When an intoxicated motorist injures you or your loved one, our legal team can help pursue justice.
Schedule an initial consultation today to learn more about how our seasoned personal injury attorneys can help with your drunk driving car accident case in Portland.
