When you’re involved in an accident or incident involving a drunk driver in Charleston, SC, the guilty party must be held to account. Hiring an experienced drunk driving accident attorney is the best way to ensure justice is served and you receive the compensation you deserve. From determining what your claim is worth to taking the case to court, we look at the role of a lawyer in drunk driving victim cases.
A Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Provides Legal Representation
A lawyer’s primary role is to represent you throughout the legal process. They will act on your behalf, looking after your best interests in negotiations and throughout court proceedings.
Determine a Fair Settlement
There’s no exact science when assessing the settlement you deserve. Insurance companies will try to offer the minimum amount they can, which is often much lower than it should be. An attorney with knowledge of DUI laws and experience handling personal injury cases is better placed to determine a fair settlement. They’ll take into account factors such as the severity of your injuries, emotional distress, medical bills, and lost wages, to calculate what your DUI claim is worth.
Investigation and Gathering Evidence
Your DUI attorney will use their local knowledge and contacts to investigate the drunk driving incident and gather evidence, such as witness statements, police reports, medical records, and CCTV footage. All the evidence they collate will be used to build a strong case against the guilty party.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies
Negotiating with insurance companies is tough and, if you attempt to do so alone, you’ll unlikely receive the compensation you deserve. A lawyer will handle these negotiations, fighting in your corner to secure the best settlement possible.
Take the Case to Court
When negotiations fail and no settlement is reached, your legal team is prepared to take the case to trial. Their legal strategy will form the basis of the case, and they’ll present the evidence and make your case before a judge or jury, advocating for a favorable outcome.
Charleston, SC Dram Shop Laws
Did you know the Charleston establishment that served alcohol to the drunk driver can also be held responsible? Many people are unaware of South Carolina’s dram shop laws which state that the place responsible for the intoxication of an individual is also responsible for their actions after they leave the venue.
A good attorney will investigate the bar, restaurant, or club where the driver became drunk (or more drunk) to ascertain whether they over served the individual and allowed them to drive while intoxicated. If so, you may have a legal claim against the venue. These cases are complex, but an experienced lawyer can guide you through the process, ensuring the establishment is held to account and you receive a fair settlement for damages.
South Carolina’s DUI laws are complex and difficult to navigate, which is why you need an experienced attorney on your side when you or a loved one is involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver. From investigating the accident and negotiating with insurance companies to litigating, we will fight to make sure justice is served. Contact Yelverton Litigators in Charleston, SC today, and let our dedicated team get you the compensation you deserve.
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