The last thing on many drivers’ minds when traveling on one of the many highways in the US is the potential of being hit by drunk drivers. Unfortunately, in 2010 alone, there were 10,228 people killed in alcohol-impaired automobile accidents, accounting for 31 percent of all traffic deaths in the United States, report the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Furthermore, according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), there were 344 drunk driving deaths in the state of New York in 2012.
Being involved in an auto accident can be traumatic and can result in physical disabilities and injuries, as well as emotional hardship. If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, a lawyer can help you pursue compensation for your pain, suffering and medical costs.
Common Injuries from a Car Accident
When a person is involved in any car accident, injuries can range from mild to severe and may include anything from a superficial laceration to a traumatic brain injury.
Some common types of injuries that a person may incur from a car accident include:
- bruises, abrasions or lacerations;
- broken bones;
- back or neck injuries;
- brain injuries;
- spinal cord injuries;
- facial injuries;
- internal injuries; and
- psychological injuries, such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
Depending upon the circumstances of the accident, including factors such as the speed the drunk driver was traveling and which part of the vehicle was hit, a car accident may result in death.
Who is liable for your drunk driving-related accident?
When a person acts irresponsibly and causes a car accident, he or she may be liable for damages or injuries that result. Additionally, because driving while impaired or under the influence of alcohol is illegal in the state of New York, a drunk driving accident lawyer may use evidence of impairment to prove the driver’s liability.
Remember that your own no-fault personal injury protection (PIP) coverage can provide compensation. If you suffered serious injuries or damages that exceed PIP coverage, you may pursue a liability claim against a drunk driver. In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims regarding a car accident is three years from the date of the accident, according to New York Civil Practice and Rules section 214. As such, take action immediately.
Seek Legal Recourse in New York with a Drunk Driving Accident Attorney
If you have been injured in a car accident that was the result of a drunk driver, or if a loved one suffered a wrongful death as a result of a drunk driver, seek representation from a lawyer familiar with such accident claims. The attorneys at Gacovino, Lake & Associates, P.C. can help guide you through the claim-filing process, provide you with information about what types of compensation you may be eligible to recover, and let you know what documents and proof you’ll need to gather to prove negligence.
Don’t wait any longer to pursue your claim. Call an accident lawyer today at 800-550-0000 or contact us online to get started.
