Drunk Driving Accidents in Kenansville
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While there are many potential hazards on the road, one of the most dangerous is impaired drivers. Motorists under the influence of alcohol or drugs may lack the reflexes or decision-making ability to avoid colliding with other drivers.
If you have suffered injuries as a result of drunk driving accidents in Kenansville, you may be entitled to financial compensation. A skilled car accident injury attorney from The Law Office of Justin B. Hunter, P.A. could help you file a claim and hold those responsible for your wreck accountable. Contact us today to schedule your consultation.
In North Carolina, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. In some situations, this threshold is even lower. For example, commercial drivers face a limit of 0.04% and those under the age of 21 are prohibited from having any trace of alcohol in their system while driving.
Civil courts often consider a criminal DWI conviction as proof of fault, increasing the likelihood of securing compensation in a related injury claim. However, the consequences of a Kenansville drunk driving accident can be significant, even if the drunk driver has not been charged or convicted of a crime. If you were involved in a wreck caused by a drunk driver, an attorney from our firm can help you file a compensation claim to hold them civilly liable.
The strongest evidence in car accident cases involving intoxication is a criminal conviction for DWI. However, you still have options for recovering damages even if the at-fault motorist is not convicted. This could include the driver’s admissions of drinking at the scene of the crash, evidence of an open container in the vehicle, or failed field sobriety tests. In addition, your attorney could work to collect eyewitness testimony and nearby security footage that may prove the at-fault driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of your accident.
If you have been injured in a Kenansville drunk driving collision, you may be entitled to several different types of damages, including the following.
Drunk driving accidents often lead to serious injuries that require extensive medical care. You have the right to not only seek damages based on your existing medical needs, but also any future care related to the accident.
If your injury prevents you from earning a living, you may be entitled to recover lost income. In cases where injuries are permanent or career-altering, future earning potential may also be considered. These damages could be available whether you are temporarily out of work or your future ability to earn a living has been impacted.
Beyond your physical injuries, you may also experience emotional trauma or a reduced quality of life. While these losses are more difficult to quantify, pain and suffering compensation is often a major part of an injury settlement.
In North Carolina, it is also possible to recover punitive damages, or financial compensation meant to punish the at-fault party for particularly egregious or reckless behavior. Driving while impaired is considered willful and wanton conduct and serves as grounds for this type of recovery under North Carolina General Statutes § 1D-15. Additionally, punitive awards related to DWI are not subject to the cap typically placed on such damages.
If you have been hurt in a drunk driving accident in Kenansville, there is no time to delay. Seeking help from experienced legal counsel as soon as possible can significantly increase your chances of a positive case outcome. Reach out to our team at the Law Office of Justin B. Hunter for a private consultation to get started.