Drunk Driving Accidents

Bowling Green Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys

Drunk Driving Accident Claims in Kentucky

Despite the vast body of research and anecdotes proving that drinking and driving is a bad idea, motorists continue to make the decision to do so with shocking regularity. Data compiled by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) show that every day in the U.S., 29 people are killed in motor vehicle crashes that involve an alcohol-impaired driver. Though alcohol is the main culprit in accidents involving an impaired driver, drugs both legal and illegal are involved in about 16% of all motor vehicle crashes.

Our Bowling Green drunk driving accident attorneys are available to take clients all over the state. If you choose to work with us, we can help you get the compensation you need to pay for your medical bills, ongoing treatment, car repairs, and more.

Ready to schedule your free consultation? Call (270) 423-0023 now. 

What Is Considered Drunk Driving in Kentucky?

Alcohol reduces brain functionality, impairing your ability to think, reason, and react—even after only a couple of drinks. Under Kentucky’s DUI laws, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or 0.08% or more if you’re over the age of 21; if you’re under the legal drinking age, you can get a DUI if you’re caught driving with a BAC of 0.02% or more. For most people, it takes about four or five drinks to reach the level where it is considered against the law to operate a vehicle.

Common DUI Accident Injuries

Accidents involving a drunk driver tend to cause the most severe motor vehicle accident injuries due to the extreme recklessness involved. Unfortunately, the ones most affected are typically the victims, not the drunk driver.

Serious injuries that tend to result from drunk driving accidents include:

Devastating injuries involve more extensive medical treatment, which inevitably involves costly medical bills. If you have been hurt at no fault of your own, it shouldn’t be your responsibility to pay for your recovery. By filing a personal injury claim, you can receive the just compensation you deserve, which will be calculated based on the exact damages you have suffered.

Types of Damages You Can Recover

Damages are the losses you have experienced as a result of your accident. Rather than leaving you to pay for everything out of your own pocket, you can sue the drunk driver who caused your accident to receive a settlement that will pay for all of your accident-related expenses.

Damages suffered in a drunk driving accident may include compensation for the following:

  • Lost wages from taking time off of work
  • Medical bills, both past and future
  • Pain, suffering, and mental anguish
  • Costs for any damaged or destroyed property, including your car

Do Drunk Driving Accidents Fall Under Civil or Criminal Law?

Personal injury claims are considered civil law matters, but accidents involving a DUI can also involve criminal charges. Depending on the facts of your case, you may be able to claim “punitive damages” in addition to the others listed above. This means the drunk driver and their insurance company may owe you extra money as a punishment for their recklessness.

Working with an attorney can strongly increase your chances of receiving the maximum compensation you are owed. If you are on the fence about hiring a lawyer, we offer free consultations during which we would be happy to answer your questions.

Contact us here to schedule a free case evaluation with a Bowling Green drunk driving accident attorney. 

Commonly Asked Questions

What are the penalties for drunk driving in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, penalties for drunk driving can include fines, license suspension, and even jail time, especially for repeat offenses. Additionally, a DUI conviction can result in a significant increase in auto insurance rates.

Can I still file a personal injury claim if the drunk driver was arrested?

Yes, you can still file a personal injury claim even if the drunk driver was arrested. A criminal case against the driver is separate from your civil claim for compensation for your injuries and damages.

What should I do if I've been injured in a drunk driving accident?

If you've been injured in a drunk driving accident, it's important to seek medical attention immediately. It's also advisable to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney to understand your legal options for seeking compensation.

Is it possible to receive punitive damages in a drunk driving accident case?

Yes, it is possible to receive punitive damages in a drunk driving accident case. These damages are intended to punish the at-fault driver for their reckless behavior and can result in additional compensation for the victim.

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