Massachusetts Drunk Driving Lawyer
What You Need to Do If You’re Involved in a Drunk Driving Accident?
Being involved in a drunk driving accident is a traumatizing experience that can inflict life-altering consequences on innocent victims. Navigating the aftermath of such an event can be overwhelming, but our Massachusetts drunk driving lawyer can provide essential guidance and support during these challenging times.
At the Law Offices of Barry Feinstein & Affiliates P.C., we understand the devastating impact that drunk driving accidents can have on victims and their families. Our Massachusetts personal injury attorneys are committed to fighting for justice and ensuring that those affected receive the compensation they deserve. Contact us now to schedule a free consultation, and let us help you take the first step towards recovery and justice.
What is Drunk Driving?
Drunk driving, also known as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), is the act of operating a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol or other intoxicating substances. It is a dangerous and illegal practice that poses a serious threat to public safety, causing numerous accidents, injuries, and fatalities on the roads.
Under Massachusetts state law, it’s a crime for anyone to get behind the wheel with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. If a driver is under the age of 21, he or she is prohibited from driving if his or her BAC is higher than .02%. Any driver in Massachusetts found driving with a BAC at or above the legal limit will be arrested and booked on DUI charges.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, seeking the guidance of our MA drunk driving accident lawyer can make all the difference in your pursuit of justice and compensation.
What are the Common Causes of Drunk Driving Accidents in Massachusetts?
Drunk driving accidents in Massachusetts continue to be a significant concern, posing a threat to public safety and leading to numerous injuries and fatalities. Understanding the primary causes of these accidents is crucial in developing targeted strategies to reduce their occurrence. Here are some of the primary factors contributing to drunk driving incidents:
Alcohol Impairment
The most common cause of drunk driving is the consumption of alcohol. When individuals consume alcoholic beverages beyond the legal limit, their cognitive and motor skills become impaired, affecting their ability to make sound judgments and react quickly while driving.
Impaired Judgment
Alcohol and drugs can impair a driver’s judgment, leading them to make risky decisions while driving. This includes the following:
- Speeding
- Veering into oncoming traffic
- Weaving between lanes
- Tailgating
- Running red lights and stop signs
- Turning the wrong way down a one-way street
- Reckless driving, including racing
- Failing to notice pedestrians, bicyclists, and others on the road
- Losing control of the vehicle
Lack of Alternative Transportation
In situations where individuals do not have access to alternative transportation options, they might be compelled to drive even when they are impaired. This is particularly common in areas with limited public transportation or ride-sharing services.
Addiction and Substance Abuse Issues
For individuals struggling with alcohol addiction or substance abuse, the compulsion to drive under the influence can be heightened. The need to satisfy cravings or maintain substance-dependent lifestyles may override rational judgment.
Ignorance of Intoxication Levels
Some people may not be aware of how much alcohol it takes to reach the legal limit of intoxication. They may consume more drinks than they realize, putting them over the legal BAC limit for driving.
Repeat Offenders
Some individuals continue to drive under the influence even after previous arrests or convictions. These repeat offenders may demonstrate a pattern of risky behavior and require more comprehensive intervention to prevent future incidents.
What are the Common Drunk Driving Accident Injuries?
Drunk driving accidents often result in severe injuries due to the impaired driver’s reckless behavior and the force of impact during collisions. Victims of DUI accidents can suffer a wide range of injuries, some of which can be life-changing and require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. Regardless of the type of injury you sustained, our Massachusetts drunk driving accident lawyers are here to fight for justice.
Here are some of the most common DUI accident injuries:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Broken Bones and Fractures
- Neck and Whiplash Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Internal Organ Injuries
- Soft Tissue Injuries
- Psychological and Emotional Trauma
- Facial Injuries
- Burns and Scarring
- Amputations
What Types of Damages are Available to Drunk Driving Accident Victims?
When a drunk driver causes an accident, victims have the right to seek compensation for the damages they have suffered. The specific damages available in a DUI accident case may vary depending on the unique circumstances of the accident. Consulting with our Massachusetts drunk driving lawyer is crucial to understanding the full extent of the damages available and ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve for your losses.
- Medical Expenses
- Lost Wages
- Pain and Suffering
- Property Damage
- Disability and Disfigurement
- Loss of Consortium
- Punitive Damages
- Wrongful Death Damages
How Do I Prove Negligence If I Was a Victim of a Drunk Driving Accident in Massachusetts?
If you were a victim of a drunk driving accident, proving negligence is crucial in seeking compensation for your injuries and damages. Negligence refers to the failure of an individual to exercise reasonable care, resulting in harm to others. To establish negligence in a drunk driving accident case, our Massachusetts drunk driving lawyer will help you gather and present evidence that demonstrates the following elements:
Duty of Care
The first step in proving negligence is establishing that the drunk driver owed you a duty of care. All drivers on the road owe a duty to others to operate their vehicles safely and responsibly, obey traffic laws, and refrain from driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Breach of Duty
To show negligence, you must demonstrate that the drunk driver breached their duty of care. In a DUI accident, evidence of a breach can be established by proving that the driver was operating the vehicle while impaired, as evidenced by a high blood alcohol concentration (BAC) or a positive drug test.
Causation
It’s essential to establish a direct link between the drunk driver’s breach of duty and the injuries you sustained. This means demonstrating that the accident and your injuries were a direct result of the driver’s impaired state and reckless actions.
Damages
In a negligence claim, you must prove that you suffered actual damages as a result of the accident. This includes tangible losses such as medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, pain, and suffering.
What Is The Statute of Limitations in Massachusetts For Drunk Driving Accidents?
In Massachusetts, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit related to a drunk driving accident is generally three years from the date of the accident. Failing to file a lawsuit within the specified time frame can result in your case being dismissed, and you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
However, there may be certain circumstances that can affect the statute of limitations in drunk driving accident cases, including:
- Delayed discovery: When injuries are not immediately apparent or when they become evident at a later time, the statute of limitations may start from the date you discovered your injuries rather than the date of the accident.
- Minor or with Disability: If the victim of the drunk driving accident is a minor or has a legal disability, the statute of limitations may be tolled or extended. Once the individual reaches the age of majority or the legal disability is removed, the standard three-year time limit may begin.
Given the complexities surrounding the statute of limitations, it’s crucial to consult with our Massachusetts drunk driving accident lawyer as soon as possible to ensure that your claim is filed within the required timeframe.
Why Do I Need a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer in Massachusetts?
Dealing with a drunk driving accident can be emotionally and legally challenging, but taking the appropriate steps can help protect your interests and pave the way for seeking justice and obtaining fair compensation. Our Massachusetts drunk driving lawyers at Law Offices of Barry Feinstein & Affiliates P.C. will advocate for your rights and navigate the complexities of your case. Here are several ways our lawyer can help you:
- Knowledge of the Law: We possess in-depth knowledge of Massachusetts’ drunk driving laws, civil and criminal liabilities, and the complexities of these cases.
- Maximize Compensation: We will fight to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve for your injuries, assess the true value of your claim, and negotiate with insurance companies or at-fault parties.
- Prove Liability: We will thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and interview witnesses to prove the intoxicated driver’s negligence.
- Legal Procedures: We will handle all legal paperwork, filings, and court proceedings, ensuring your case is handled professionally and efficiently.
Our personal injury law firm will ensure your voice is heard and your interests are prioritized throughout the legal process. We will work to protect your rights and fight for justice on your behalf. Contact us now to schedule a free consultation, and let us handle the legal aspects of your case so you can focus on your physical and emotional recovery.
Call Our Massachusetts Drunk Driving Lawyer Now!
The impact of drunk driving accidents can be devastating, leaving you with physical injuries, emotional trauma, and mounting expenses. Navigating the legal complexities of such cases can be daunting and stressful, but you don’t have to face it alone.
At the Law Offices of Barry Feinstein & Affiliates P.C., our Massachusetts drunk driving lawyers are here to provide unwavering support, fight for your rights, and secure the compensation you deserve. Our personal injury law firm has extensive experience working with injured clients in all areas of personal injury. We represent clients who have been injured in all types of situations, including
- Motor Vehicle Accidents
- Dangerous or Defective Products
- Medical Malpractice
- Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect
- Slips and Falls
- Animal Bites
We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a drunk driving accident can take on victims and their families. Our goal is to pursue maximum compensation to help you recover and rebuild your life after the accident. Contact us now to schedule a free consultation, and let us guide you through this challenging journey.
