If you’ve been hurt by a drunk driver in Denver, you might feel scared, overwhelmed, or just angry about what happened. Drunk driving isn’t just careless – it’s illegal, and it can change a victim’s life in an instant. You deserve answers and a way to recover after someone made such a reckless choice. That’s where our firm comes in. We’ll help you understand what your next steps should be and what you might be entitled to. To find out more about the assistance our firm can offer, contact our Denver personal injury lawyer at (303) 625-6643 to schedule your free consultation.
What To Do If You Were Injured by a Drunk Driver in Denver
Being hit by a drunk driver can leave you shaken and unsure about what comes next. Acting quickly can make a big difference for your health, your recovery, and any legal case you might pursue.
Contact the Police
Report the accident right away, and make sure police respond to the scene. An official report helps document the facts and may be important evidence if there is a case against the driver.
Gather Evidence
Try to get photos of the crash scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries. Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses. These details may help later.
Seek Medical Attention
After any crash, see a doctor as soon as possible, even if you think injuries are minor. Some problems take time to show up, and it’s important to have medical records to support your claim.
Avoid Discussing Fault
When you speak with the other driver, witnesses, or insurance adjusters, do not discuss who was to blame or admit any fault. Even a simple statement like saying you’re sorry that the accident happened can complicate your claim.
Speak to a Lawyer
Contact an attorney who handles drunk driving accident cases. An attorney can protect your rights and handle communication with insurance companies.
Taking these steps increases your chances of receiving fair treatment and financial support as you heal from the accident.
Common Causes of Drunk Driving Accidents in Denver
When it comes to drunk driving accidents in Denver, there are certain situations that occur and lead to accidents over and over again. Some common causes include:
- Impaired judgement: Alcohol lowers a person’s ability to make safe decisions behind the wheel, leading to risky moves like speeding or running red lights.
- Slowed reaction time: Drunk drivers respond more slowly to traffic signals, sudden stops, or obstacles, which increases the chance of a collision.
- Distracted driving: Intoxication can make drivers lose focus, causing them to swerve or forget about traffic signs.
- Overconfidence: Alcohol can make drivers feel more capable than they actually are, leading them to take dangerous chances.
- Falling asleep at the wheel: High levels of alcohol use make it much easier for tired drivers to nod off while driving.
Understanding why these crashes happen helps everyone see just how deadly drinking and driving can be.
Types of Crashes Caused by Drunk Drivers in Denver
Drunk drivers in Denver end up causing a range of serious car accidents. Common types include:
- Rear-end collisions: Impaired drivers fail to notice slowing or stopped traffic and slam into the back of another vehicle.
- Head-on crashes: A drunk driver can easily drift across the center line, causing some of the most severe accidents possible.
- Side-impact (T-bone) accidents: Failing to obey traffic signals or running red lights often results in crashing into the side of another car at an intersection.
- Single-car accidents: Sometimes drunk drivers lose control and crash into medians, poles, parked cars, or even buildings.
- Pedestrian or cyclist crashes: Slow reaction times and poor judgment make collisions with people walking or biking much more likely.
Each of these accident types creates the risk for serious injuries. If you have been involved in a Denver car accident contact our drunk driving lawyers today.
Common Injuries From Denver Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving accidents in Denver often leave victims with serious injuries, many of which can change lives in just moments. The force involved, mixed with delayed driver reactions, means people tend to suffer more severe harm than in typical crashes. Common injuries seen in these accidents include:
- Whiplash
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones Internal injuries
- Cuts and bruises
- Soft tissue injuries
- Burn injuries
- Facial and eye injuries
- Psychological trauma
When you’re hurt by a drunk driver, getting medical care right away is crucial, even if pain isn’t severe right away. These injuries may require months, or in some cases, a lifetime, of treatment and support.
Who Can Be Held Liable After a Drunk Driving Accident in Denver?
Responsibility for injuries after a Denver drunk driving crash does not always end with just the intoxicated driver. Depending on the circumstances, several other people or businesses may share some blame under Colorado law. Here’s how this works and who could be responsible:
The Drunk Driver
The person behind the wheel who made the choice to drive drunk is most often held responsible. Victims can pursue an insurance claim or lawsuit against this individual to cover injuries, lost income, and other damages.
Licensed Alcohol Vendors (Dram Shop Liability)
Places like bars, clubs, or restaurants that serve alcohol can be held liable under Colorado’s “dram shop” laws. This generally applies when a business provides alcohol to someone who was either under 21 or who was clearly and visibly intoxicated.
Social Hosts
Occasionally, people who serve alcohol at private gatherings may also be held responsible, but usually only if they served someone under 21 who then caused a drunk driving crash.
Other Drivers on the Road
Drunk driving crashes can also involve mistakes by others who share the road. If another motorist acted carelessly or broke a traffic law, causing or contributing to the accident, they could be found partially at fault.
Knowing who could be held liable helps you take the right steps to pursue full compensation for your injuries.
Compensation Available for Victims of Drunk Driving Accidents in Denver
Victims of drunk driving accidents in Denver may qualify for a variety of financial recovery. This compensation is meant to reimburse you for the losses you’ve experienced so you can rebuild your life. These often include:
- Medical bills
- Lost income and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Punitive damages
Every case is different, but insurance or a lawsuit could provide meaningful financial help as you work toward recovery.
How a Denver Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help You
Navigating the aftermath of a crash caused by a drunk driver can be a challenge. A drunk driving lawyer with experience in drunk driving injury cases offers the support and skill needed to advocate for you. Here’s how they can assist:
Building Your Case
Your attorney will gather police reports, medical records, testimony, video footage, and other evidence to show what happened and how you’ve been hurt.
Identifying All Responsible Parties
In some cases, more than just the drunk driver may share responsibility. Your Denver lawyer can investigate bars, restaurants, or even social hosts who may have provided alcohol, making sure every potential source of compensation is pursued.
Handling Insurance Companies
Insurers may try to reduce your payout or deny liability. An attorneyknows their tactics and can stand up for your rights to fair compensation.
Representing You in Court
If a settlement can’t be reached, your Denver lawyer is prepared to present your case in front of a judge or jury.
Having an attorney by your side means you don’t have to handle this complicated situation on your own.
Contact Our Denver Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Today
A Denver drunk driving accident lawyer can step in to protect your rights, handle the insurance company, and guide you with each step of the legal process. You don’t have to fight this battle alone or face the driver’s insurance adjusters by yourself. With the right support, you can focus on healing while your Denver drunk driving attorney works to secure the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical care, time away from work, and trauma. Contact us today to discuss your next steps at (303) 625-6643.