Drunk Driver Injuries in Washington, D.C.

Woman on rehab after being a victim of a car accident.
Part of your accident attorney’s job is proving your claim, so you can recover compensation. This can be done through evidence like the police report, eyewitness testimony and even the at-fault driver’s own statements.

Recovering Compensation in an Accident Involving a Drunk Driver

Washington, D.C. residents who have been injured by a drunk driver may be entitled to compensation. Washington, D.C. is no-fault, which means if you are injured, you are compensated first by your own PIP insurance. However, if you suffer serious injuries or they are permanent, you may place a claim against the driver or their insurance. Keep in mind, however, if you were at fault at all, you cannot file.

Proving the Motorist Was a Drunk Driver

In order to recover compensation after being injured by an intoxicated driver, you will need to prove that the other motorist was intoxicated and that their intoxication led to your injuries. This can be done through evidence like the police report, eyewitness testimony and even the at-fault driver’s own blood alcohol content (BAC) test results.

Recovering Compensation and Proving Your Claim

Part of your accident attorney’s job is proving your claim, so you can recover compensation. This can be done through evidence like the police report, eyewitness testimony and even the at-fault driver’s own statements. Once the other driver has been shown to be negligent and that it led to your trauma, you will then need to prove the extent of your injuries and how much they have cost you. This can be done through medical records, bills and other documentation.

What Can Be Recovered in an Injury Accident Caused by a Negligent Driver in Washington, D.C.

  • Medical Expenses: Medical expenses incurred as a result of an accident can be recovered in a personal injury lawsuit. This can include past and future medical expenses, as well as any other reasonable and necessary costs associated with your treatment, like transportation to and from doctor’s appointments.
  • Lost Earnings: If you were unable to work, you may be able to recover lost earnings in a personal injury lawsuit. Lost earnings include not only your wages but any bonuses you would have received, pension and insurance benefits and other compensation. If you are self-employed, tax returns and other records can support your loss of income.
  • Pain and Suffering:  Compensation for physical pain and suffering as well as emotional and psychological damage caused by your accident with a drunk driver is recoverable. It isn’t uncommon for people to suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder after a traumatic accident and have to seek professional help to deal with it. The cost of that treatment is recoverable also.
  • Punitive damages: If your injury was caused by a driver who was intoxicated, it might be possible to ask for punitive damages. This would be in addition to your compensation and is meant to punish the wrongdoer for breaking the law and discourage such behavior in the future. Asking your injury lawyer about this can help you get a clear picture of whether or not you can do this. 

Roeser Law Firm – Personal Injury Lawyers

Washington, D.C., residents can contact the Roeser Law Firm if they  have been injured by a negligent driver. If you suffered injuries caused by a drunk driver in Washington, D.C., call us today at (202) 660-4070 to discuss your case and learn more about your options for recovery. We can also be reached online.

Zeke Roeser

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3000 Connecticut Avenue NW
Suite 140
Washington, DC 20008
(202) 660-4070