A drunk driving accident is an accident involving a driver who is under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or both. If you have been involved in a drunk driving accident, one of the first things you need to do is get a drunk driving accident lawyer.
If you decide not to get a drunk driving accident lawyer, you could face serious consequences and might have to deal with otherwise avoidable pitfalls. This article discusses what could happen if you do not get a lawyer for a drunk driving accident.
Contents
Potential Consequences of Not Getting a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
1. You Might Face Criminal Charges
After a drunk driving accident, you will be put under investigation by the police. If your blood alcohol content is higher than the state’s legal limit, you may face criminal penalties. Without a drunk driving accident lawyer, it is almost inevitable that you will face serious criminal penalties, including a heavy fine, community service, or, even worse, jail time.
You may also be required to install an ignition interlock device on your vehicle or complete a substance abuse education program.
2. A Driver’s License Suspension
Suppose you are found guilty of drunk driving. In that case, you are likely to face two kinds of suspensions: an administrative DMV (Department of Motor Vehicles) suspension and a criminal conviction-based suspension.
A drunk driving accident lawyer can help you fight the suspension and restore your driver’s license so that you can continue driving legally. If fighting the suspension proves difficult due to the severity of the accident, a drunk driving accident lawyer can help you minimize the length of your suspension and get you back on the road faster.
3. Possible Insurance Compensation Issues
If you are convicted of drunk driving, your insurance company may try to do three things: deny your claim, devalue your claim, or cancel your policy. As such, it is always best to get a drunk driving accident lawyer to help you get a fair claim settlement.
Moreover, drunk driving accident lawyers can help you protect your rights and can suggest court orders to fight against an insurance company that has denied your claim.
4. You Might Go Through A Civil Lawsuit
If properties were damaged or people suffered serious injuries or passed away as a result of the accident, you may be sued by the victims or their families in a civil lawsuit. Without a lawyer, you may find it difficult to defend yourself against a civil lawsuit and may suffer financially if a large monetary damage is awarded against you.
With a lawyer, you can take comfort in knowing that you have someone in your corner that is ready to do whatever it takes to fight this lawsuit.
Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Are Here To Help
If you have been involved in a drunk driving accident, you should get a drunk driving accident lawyer since the possible consequences are severe and can affect your life for years to come.
A drunk driving accident lawyer can help you avoid criminal penalties and license suspension, help you address insurance issues, and help you defend yourself against civil lawsuits. Do not fight a drunk driving accident lawsuit alone. Get a lawyer who will help you achieve the best possible outcome.