Most drivers do not expect to be involved in a drunk driving accident, but these types of accidents happen every day. A drunk driving accident victim can sustain severe, life-altering injuries that cause physical limitations and emotional suffering.
At William Mattar Law Offices, we represent drunk driving accident victims in the Capital Region and throughout upstate New York. Our Albany drunk driving accident lawyers can help you file a claim for compensation and advocate for you to obtain the maximum recovery possible. Get started on your accident case by calling our offices at 844-noswap444-4444. We're available 24/7 to take your call.
Why Should I Hire William Mattar Law Offices for My Personal Injury Case?
The skilled personal injury lawyers at William Mattar Law Offices have extensive experience in handling drunk driving accident cases and fighting for the rights of injured victims. When you hire a lawyer from William Mattar Law Offices, you can expect personalized attention and compassionate support throughout the legal process.
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that a drunk driving accident can take on victims and their families. Your attorney will work closely with you to understand the unique circumstances of your case and develop a strategy that aims to secure the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
The lawyers at William Mattar Law Offices have a deep understanding of New York's laws pertaining to drunk driving accidents and the complexities of the insurance claims process. We will thoroughly investigate your case, gather evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with expert witnesses when necessary to build a strong case on your behalf. They will also handle all communication with insurance companies, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you are not taken advantage of by insurers seeking to minimize their liability.
With a proven track record of success in drunk driving accident cases, the attorneys at William Mattar Law Offices have the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary to pursue the best possible outcome for your claim. We will aggressively advocate for your interests, whether through negotiations with insurance companies or by taking your case to trial if necessary. Contact us today for a free consultation and to discuss your options for financial recovery.
Criminal DWI Charges vs. Personal Injury Claims
Criminal DWI charges and personal injury claims are two distinct legal matters that can arise from a drunk driving incident, each with its own purpose, process, and potential consequences.
Criminal DWI Charges
- Nature: Criminal DWI charges are brought by the government against an individual accused of driving while intoxicated.
- Purpose: The purpose of criminal DWI charges is to punish the offender, deter future offenses, and protect public safety.
- Burden of Proof: In a criminal DWI case, the prosecution must prove the defendant's guilt "beyond a reasonable doubt."
- Consequences: If convicted, the offender may face penalties such as fines, jail time, license suspension, mandatory substance abuse treatment, and the installation of an ignition interlock device.
- Parties Involved: The parties in a criminal DWI case are the government (prosecution) and the accused individual (defendant).
Personal Injury Claims
- Nature: Personal injury claims are civil lawsuits filed by an individual who has been injured due to another person's negligent or wrongful actions, such as drunk driving.
- Purpose: The purpose of a personal injury claim is to seek compensation for the victim's damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
- Burden of Proof: In a personal injury case, the plaintiff (the injured party) must prove their case by a "preponderance of the evidence," meaning that it is more likely than not that the defendant's actions caused the plaintiff's injuries.
- Consequences: If the plaintiff prevails, the defendant may be ordered to pay monetary damages to compensate the victim for their losses.
- Parties Involved: The parties in a personal injury case are the injured individual (plaintiff) and the person or entity responsible for causing the injuries (defendant).
Can Someone Face Criminal DWI Charges and a Personal Injury Claim?
Criminal DWI charges and personal injury claims are separate legal matters and can proceed independently of one another. An individual may face criminal charges for drunk driving while also being sued in a civil court by the victim for damages resulting from the same incident. The outcome of one case does not necessarily affect the outcome of the other, as they have different standards of proof and serve different purposes.
Types of Drunk Driving Accidents
Alcohol — even a small amount — can affect a person's system, impacting brain functioning, coordination, judgment, and reasoning. For this reason, drunk drivers can cause different types of motor vehicle accidents.
On a multi-lane highway, a drunk driver may swerve or drift out of their lane of travel, causing a collision with another vehicle. An example is a severe head-on collision. These collisions can occur if a drunk driver veers into oncoming traffic.
Alcohol impairment can make a motorist less likely to obey or follow traffic laws and signals, such as red lights and street signs. An intoxicated driver can also potentially drive the wrong way down a one-way street. Similarly, a drunk driver may speed or drive recklessly. If a driver under the influence is speeding and loses control of the vehicle, it can result in a tragic rollover accident.
Common Injuries in an Albany Drunk Driving Accident
Those involved in drunk driving crashes in Albany can suffer severe and devastating injuries, including:
- Head trauma (including traumatic brain injuries);
- Neck and back injuries (i.e., whiplash);
- Spinal cord damage (permanent or partial damage);
- Severe bone fractures;
- Internal organ damage;
- Soft tissue injuries;
- Lacerations; and
- Burns.
Accident injuries can take a toll on a person’s life and cause permanent difficulties. Injuries can make everyday activities, work, and spending time with loved ones challenging or even impossible. An accident attorney can help you recover compensation to help get your life back on track. Contact us today at 844-noswap444-4444.
Why Hire a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer in Albany?
Cases involving Albany car accidents can be complex, and it can be challenging to go through the legal process without the help of a lawyer. Accident lawyers have extensive experience and knowledge of the laws that can affect your case. Your lawyer can work with insurance adjusters to ensure you receive maximum compensation. From the initial investigation to the final case outcome, an accident lawyer can be an essential aid during the claim process.
In addition to the many legal details of a car accident case, there are also statutes of limitations that can dictate how long you have to bring a claim or lawsuit in New York. In many cases, these time limits can be very short. The deadlines that may impact your case will vary depending on different factors. An accident attorney can help identify which ones apply to your case and make sure all requirements are met.
Contact an Albany Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer at William Mattar Law Offices Today
If you have been injured in a drunk driving accident in Albany, call William Mattar today at 844-noswap444-4444. Our drunk driving accident lawyers help injury victims get the compensation they need to cover damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. To schedule a free initial consultation, fill out our online form, and our legal team will get in contact with you as soon as possible.