Drunk driving shatters lives and disrupts the peace, turning every journey into a potential tragedy. If you or someone you love has been injured by a drunk driver in Wilmington, it is crucial to have an experienced Wilmington drunk driving accident attorney who can advocate for the compensation and support you rightfully deserve.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident involving a drunk driver, we urge you to reach out to Shipman & Wright for a free, confidential case review. Let our law firm navigate the legal landscape on your behalf, ensuring that justice is not just sought but secured.
Why Hire Shipman & Wright?
- Our Knowledge and Experience: Our law firm has cultivated a deep understanding and competence in handling drunk driving accident cases.
- Our Track Record: Our success is not just measured in the settlements and judgments we have secured, but in the lives we have helped rebuild.
- Our Commitment: We understand the turmoil and pain that follows a drunk driving accident, and we approach each client relationship with the personal care and attention it deserves.
- No Upfront Cost: Our law firm handles various types of personal injury cases, including pedestrian accidents and motorcycle accidents in Wilmington, on a contingency fee basis. This means it will cost you nothing to hire us to help recover the compensation and justice you deserve
How an Experienced Wilmington Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Can Help
- A Comprehensive Legal Strategy: Our experienced Wilmington car accident lawyers will devise a comprehensive legal strategy and handle every aspect of your case, from the initial investigation to dealing with insurance companies and, if necessary, representing you in court.
- An In-depth Investigation: Whether it is gathering evidence, consulting with experts, or negotiating with the liable insurance companies, our goal will be to secure the most favorable outcome for you.
- Representation at Trial: If your case must go to trial to secure the compensation that you truly deserve, you can rest assured that you have a skilled litigator fighting for your rights in court.
With Shipman & Wright, you are not just hiring a Wilmington drunk driving accident lawyer; you are partnering with a legal team that is deeply committed to your recovery and well-being.
Liability for Drunk Driving Accidents in North Carolina
Under N.C. Gen. Stat. § 20-138.1, a person is guilty of DWI if they drive a vehicle on a highway, street, or public vehicular area within the state:
- While under the influence of an impairing substance; or
- After consuming sufficient alcohol that they have, at any relevant time after driving, an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or more.
The statute establishes the basis for criminal charges against drunk drivers and indirectly impacts civil liability by establishing negligence per se. When a driver violates this statute and causes an accident, they can be presumed to have been negligent, which can simplify the process of proving liability in a civil lawsuit.
Furthermore, liability for a drunk driving accident can extend beyond the drunk driver. Our state’s laws, including the Dram Shop Laws (G.S. § 18B-121) and social host liability statutes, recognize that others may also bear responsibility for these tragedies. Additionally, a drunk driving accident involving a truck further complicates liability, as there are several parties who may be held liable. A Wilmington truck accident lawyer can help you with these types of cases.
Compensation for Injuries Sustained in a Drunk Driving Accident
At Shipman & Wright, our Wilmington drunk driving accident lawyers are committed to securing comprehensive compensation for our clients, addressing the full spectrum of their losses, including but not limited to:
- Medical Expenses: Coverage for current and future medical treatments, rehabilitation costs, and any specialized medical equipment or modifications needed due to the injury.
- Lost Wages: Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work following the car accident, as well as potential loss of earning capacity if the injuries result in long-term disability or impairment.
- Pain and Suffering: Recognition of the physical pain and emotional distress suffered by the victim, including anxiety, depression, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Punitive Damages: In some cases, victims may also be awarded punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar reckless behavior in the future.
At Shipman & Wright, we understand the profound impact a drunk driving accident can have on an individual’s life, and our Wilmington drunk driving accident lawyers are dedicated to ensuring our clients are fully compensated for their losses.
The Statute of Limitations for Drunk Driving Accident Claims
After being injured by a drunk driver in Wilmington, North Carolina, you have a limited amount of time to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for your injuries and other losses. This time limit, outlined in N.C. G.S. § 1-52, is typically three years from the date of the accident. However, certain circumstances may extend or shorten this timeframe.
This statute of limitations serves as a critical deadline for victims and underscores the importance of consulting with an experienced Wilmington drunk driving accident attorney as soon as possible. Acting swiftly ensures that evidence remains fresh, and witnesses’ memories are clear, both of which are crucial for building a strong case.
If you have lost a loved one to a drunk driving accident, our Wilmington wrongful death lawyers can help you recover damages and file a claim.
Contact Shipman Wright for a Drunk Driving Accident Attorney in Wilmington, NC
The journey to recovery after being injured by a drunk driver can be long and fraught with challenges, but you do not have to walk it alone. At Shipman & Wright, our legal team is dedicated to guiding you through every step of the legal process, ensuring that your voice is heard, and your rights are protected. Contact Shipman & Wright today at (910) 762-1990 for a free, confidential consultation. Let our Wilmington personal injury lawyers shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on what truly matters: your recovery and well-being.