If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver in Charleston, South Carolina, you may be facing not only physical and emotional recovery but also complex legal battles. At Hopkins Law Firm, we are committed to helping victims of DUI accidents secure the justice and compensation they deserve.
Drunk driving accidents can lead to serious, life-changing injuries, and in some cases, even death. The impact of these accidents goes beyond the immediate medical bills and physical pain; it can affect your ability to work, your relationships, and your overall quality of life. If you have been injured in a DUI-related accident, you need a skilled and dedicated attorney to protect your rights and fight for the compensation you're entitled to.
Why Choose Hopkins Law Firm as Your Charleston Drunk Driver Accident Lawyer?
At Hopkins Law Firm, we have a proven track record of success in handling DUI accident cases in Charleston and throughout South Carolina. Here's why we are the right choice to represent you:
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Experienced DUI Accident Lawyers: Our team of skilled attorneys has extensive experience in handling DUI-related accidents and personal injury claims. We understand the unique challenges these cases present and know how to build a strong case that holds the responsible party accountable.
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Aggressive Representation: We are not afraid to take on drunk drivers, their insurance companies, or large corporations. Whether through negotiation or litigation, we fight relentlessly to secure the maximum compensation for our clients.
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Compassionate Client Care: We know that an accident caused by a drunk driver can have devastating effects on your life. Our attorneys provide personalized, compassionate support throughout the legal process, ensuring you feel heard and supported every step of the way.
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No Fees Unless You Win: We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don't pay us unless we win your case. This allows you to pursue justice without worrying about upfront legal costs.
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Free Consultation: We offer a free, no-obligation consultation where we will evaluate your case, answer your questions, and explain your legal options.
Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving accidents often result in severe injuries. Due to the impaired judgment, slow reflexes, and lack of focus that typically accompany intoxicated driving, these accidents tend to be more violent and destructive than those caused by sober drivers. Common injuries include:
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Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): A significant risk in high-impact collisions, brain injuries can lead to long-term cognitive, emotional, and physical challenges.
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Spinal Cord Injuries: Injuries to the spinal cord can result in paralysis or permanent disability, significantly affecting the victim's quality of life.
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Fractures and Broken Bones: Broken limbs, ribs, and other bones are common in car accidents, requiring long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation.
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Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma from an accident can cause internal injuries, such as organ damage, which may not be immediately visible but can be life-threatening.
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Whiplash and Soft Tissue Injuries: Even in relatively low-speed crashes, victims of drunk driving accidents can suffer from whiplash or other soft tissue injuries, which can result in chronic pain and long-term treatment.
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Wrongful Death: Tragically, DUI accidents often result in fatalities. If you've lost a loved one due to a drunk driver's negligence, you may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim for compensation.
What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident in Charleston
If you've been involved in an accident caused by a drunk driver, it's essential to take certain steps to protect your rights and strengthen your case:
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Seek Medical Attention: Always see a doctor after an accident, even if you don't feel seriously injured. Some injuries, such as concussions, may not show immediate symptoms but can have long-term effects.
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Call the Police: Make sure the police are called to the scene and that a report is filed. The police report will include critical information, including whether the driver was arrested for DUI or under suspicion of intoxication.
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Document the Scene: Take photos of the accident scene, your vehicle, any visible injuries, and other relevant details (such as road conditions or traffic signs). If there are witnesses, collect their contact information.
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Avoid Discussing Fault: Do not admit fault or make statements that could be misinterpreted as accepting responsibility for the accident. Let your lawyer handle all communications with the insurance companies and other parties involved.
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Contact a DUI Accident Lawyer: It's crucial to speak with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible to protect your rights. A skilled attorney will guide you through the legal process and ensure that you have the best chance of securing fair compensation.
Types of Compensation You May Be Entitled To
If you've been injured in a DUI accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:
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Medical Expenses: Compensation for past, current, and future medical expenses, including surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and ongoing care.
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Lost Wages: If you're unable to work due to your injuries, you may be compensated for lost income, as well as potential future earnings if your injury impacts your long-term ability to work.
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Pain and Suffering: Financial compensation for the physical and emotional pain you've endured as a result of the accident.
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Property Damage: If your vehicle or personal property was damaged or destroyed, you may be entitled to reimbursement for repair or replacement costs.
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Punitive Damages: In some cases, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These are awarded in addition to compensatory damages and are intended to punish the drunk driver for their reckless behavior and deter others from driving under the influence.
South Carolina DUI Accident Laws
South Carolina has strict laws when it comes to driving under the influence (DUI). A driver is considered legally intoxicated if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. If a driver is arrested for DUI and later convicted, this conviction can significantly impact your case and can be used as evidence of negligence in your civil claim.
Additionally, South Carolina follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, even if you were partially to blame, it is still worth consulting with a DUI accident lawyer to determine your best course of action.
How a Charleston Drunk Driver Accident Lawyer Can Help
Our team of experienced DUI accident lawyers in Charleston is dedicated to fighting for your rights and getting you the compensation you deserve. We can help you by:
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Investigating the Accident: We will gather evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and expert testimony, to build a strong case on your behalf.
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Negotiating with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies will often attempt to settle quickly for a low amount. We will handle negotiations to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
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Pursuing Legal Action: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and advocate for your rights before a judge and jury.
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Providing Support Throughout the Process: From the moment you contact us, we will guide you through the legal process and provide you with the information and support you need to make informed decisions.
Contact a Charleston Drunk Driver Accident Lawyer Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI accident in Charleston, South Carolina, don't wait to get the legal help you need. Contact Hopkins Law Firm today for a free consultation. We will evaluate your case, answer your questions, and provide you with the legal support you need to get justice and compensation.
Call (843) 314-4202 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation now.
