Bardstown Drunk Driving Accident Attorney

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that roughly 37 people die in drunk driving crashes in the United States every day — that’s about one person every 39 minutes. 13,524 people died in alcohol-impaired driving traffic deaths just in 2022.

Because alcohol consumption impairs judgment, delays reaction times, and increases the likelihood of distracted driving in intoxicated drivers, drunk driving accidents can end in severe injuries depending on the speed and impact of the crash, as well as other contributing factors.

Some common injuries associated with drunk driving accidents include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Traumatic brain injuries typically happen when the head strikes an object or when the brain is slammed against the interior walls of the skull due to a sudden impact. TBIs can range in severity from mild concussions to more severe forms like contusions, hemorrhages, or diffuse axonal injuries. These injuries can lead to long-term cognitive and physical disabilities that require extensive and ongoing treatment and rehabilitation.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries, when survived, often result in either partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Drunk driving accident victims with spinal injuries may suffer from paraplegia or quadriplegia, altering their lives drastically and needing lifelong care.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of a collision can also cause broken bones and fractures, especially to the arms, legs, ribs, and facial bones. These painful injuries often require surgery, physical therapy, and a long-term period of recovery.
• Internal Injuries: Damage to the liver, spleen, kidneys, or other internal organs can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. Injuries in a crash can also lead to internal bleeding, which might not be noticeable immediately but can result in serious complications or even death.
• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Whiplash is another common car accident injury. It occurs when the neck is forcefully “whipped” back and forth. This can result in chronic pain, stiffness, and mobility difficulties. Neck injuries can result in damaged vertebrae, discs, and nerves, requiring medical intervention and often surgery.
• Injuries to the Face: Drunk driving accidents, like any vehicle accident, can often result in facial injuries from shattered glass, airbag impact, or hitting the steering wheel or dashboard. These may include lacerations, fractures, and dental damage, and can sometimes lead to permanent scarring or disfigurement.
• Burns: If a vehicle catches fire in a crash, those inside or those attempting to assist can suffer from mild to severe burns. Third-degree burns can leave significant scarring and cause nerve damage, the need for skin grafts, or other reconstructive surgeries.
• Psychological Injuries: Beyond the physical injuries, victims of drunk driving accidents will often experience psychological trauma as well, things like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. The emotional toll can be just as, or even more, debilitating as the physical injuries, requiring therapy and long-term support.

Beyond the physical and emotional harm, these accidents also cause financial distress, impacting the lives of victims and their loved ones. The estimated economic cost of alcohol-impaired crashes (BAC of .08 g/dL or higher) in 2019 was $58 billion.

Kentucky law takes a firm stance against drunk driving. The legal blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit is 0.08%, and drivers found over this limit face severe penalties.

These penalties can include fines, license suspension or revocation, mandatory alcohol education programs, and in some cases, prison sentences. If a drunk driver causes an accident resulting in injuries or wrongful death, they can face civil lawsuits, as well.

A drunk driving accident attorney in Bardstown plays a crucial role in helping victims of drunk driving accidents and their families by providing vital legal representation and support throughout the entire claims process.

Here are just a few of the ways that they can help:

Legal Guidance and Representation

A skilled Bardstown car accident lawyer will offer comprehensive legal guidance from your first consultation to your settlement negotiations or trial. They’ll navigate the complexities of Kentucky laws, help ensure that your rights are protected, and fight for fair compensation for your damages.

Investigation and Evidence Collection

Attorneys who specialize in drunk driving accidents can conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding yours. By gathering crucial evidence like police reports, eyewitness statements, related medical records, and expert testimony, they’ll build a strong case on your behalf.

Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be challenging, especially when you’re trying to get fair compensation for injuries and damages. Insurance adjusters will often try to rush or low-ball their offers to protect the company’s bottom line. They may even question liability or try to deny your claim altogether.

A proficient drunk driving accident attorney has the experience to negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to secure a fair settlement. They understand the tactics used by insurers to minimize payouts and fight on your behalf to get you the best possible outcome.

If a fair settlement can’t be reached through negotiation, your lawyer will be prepared to represent you in court. They’ll present compelling arguments and evidence before a judge, to secure a favorable verdict and maximum compensation for your losses.

The aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be traumatic and painful, and successfully getting back to your normal life often requires professional legal assistance.

At McCoy & Hiestand, PLC, our drunk driving accident lawyers offer invaluable support, guiding you and your family through complex legal proceedings and advocating for your best interests. With their expertise, you can seek the maximum fair compensation while still focusing on rebuilding your life.

If you or someone you know has been hurt in a drunk driving accident, contact us today, and let’s start pursuing justice.