Drunk Driving Car Accidents in Upper Marlboro
Drunk driving puts everyone on the road at risk. Intoxicated drivers are a major cause of catastrophic and fatal traffic crashes in the United States. This behavior is also illegal and can lead to criminal charges.
When you suffer a collision with a driver you suspect was intoxicated, contact a skilled attorney like Roger Gelb to hold them accountable. At Gelb & Gelb, P.C., we know how to fight for the victims of drunk driving car accidents in Upper Marlboro. We are here to support you throughout the legal process.
Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Crashes
Impaired drivers often cause severe crashes with devastating consequences. A drunk motorist may travel at high speeds or fail to see another car stopped at a red light. These collisions can lead to life-threatening or fatal harm.
A victim may sustain injuries that lead to permanent disabilities and require lifelong care. They may never return to the life they had before the crash. Due to the high cost of medical care and other expenses associated with drunk driving cases, our lawyers in Upper Marlboro could pursue significant compensation for the injured victim and their family.
Compensation from an Intoxicated Driver
The law entitles the victim of a drunk driving crash to recover the total cost of medical treatment, ongoing care, or around-the-clock help at home if needed. A successful claim will also cover loss of pay, benefits, and future earning potential. It can also cover their non-monetary losses like permanent scarring and disfigurement, psychological anguish, and pain and suffering.
The Upper Marlboro attorneys at our firm could work to recover compensation after a drunk driving accident through a lawsuit or settlement demand. The purpose of compensation is to cover the victim’s out-of-pocket expenses and return them to the same financial situation as before the collision.
Noah’s Law Enforces Stricter Drunk Driving Penalties in Upper Marlboro
After a drunk driver killed a Maryland police officer, lawmakers passed Noah’s law to enforce stricter penalties for driving under the influence (DUI). The legislation requires any motorist found guilty of DUI to install an ignition interlock device in their car for six months. The legislation also significantly increased driver’s license suspension times.
When drivers operate motor vehicles under the influence of alcohol or other substances, they are responsible for any ensuing accidents. The skilled lawyers at our firm could investigate a collision and collect evidence of the driver’s intoxication to hold them accountable.
Time Limits for Filing a Lawsuit Against an Impaired Driver
The statute of limitations is critical to be aware of in personal injury claims. This sets a strict court-enforced time limit for filing a lawsuit. Under the Maryland Courts and Judicial Proceedings § 5-101, the claimant must file their case within three years of the date they suffered injuries.
Three years may seem like the distant future, but the sooner an injured person gets legal counsel, the better. Witness statements and other forms of evidence become more difficult to collect as time passes. It is best to start working immediately while memories are fresh and documents are readily available.
Consult an Upper Marlboro Lawyer on Drunk Driving Car Crashes
When you suffer injuries in a collision with a drunk driver, you have the right to sue them for monetary damages. An experienced attorney could work to prove the driver’s intoxication and hold them accountable for their reckless behavior.
Roger Gelb could investigate to find the evidence and documents needed to prove the driver was above the legal limit. A successful lawsuit could cover all your medical care, lost wages, and other losses. Call Gelb & Gelb, P.C. today to discuss your options after a drunk driving car accident in Upper Marlboro.