Chicago Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Since 1998, when Morelli Law Firm was founded, we have faithfully served injury victims. Our Chicago car accident lawyers offer compassionate legal assistance to those in need. Call us today to schedule a case evaluation.

The Benefits of Hiring a Chicago Drunk Driving Accident Attorney

When you’re injured in a traffic accident, the last thing you should worry about is building a case against an intoxicated driver. Trust an experienced lawyer from our team to handle all legal aspects of your case. Knowing that your claim is in capable hands, you can focus on healing.

We start by closely listening to our clients tell their version of the event. It is important for us to see the accident and its aftermath through your eyes. Then, we will investigate the crash to determine liability. Our Chicago personal injury lawyers will gather different types of evidence to show the extent of your damages and determine how much your claim is worth.

Once we have a clear understanding of the collision, we will review your available options to pursue justice and compensation. You will have all the information you need to make the final decision about how to proceed with your case. Whether you wish to file an insurance claim or a lawsuit, our lawyers will always be by your side, offering support throughout the process.

Types of Damages Available to Drunk Driving Accident Victims

If an intoxicated driver caused the crash, you could claim compensation for your accident-related losses. An experienced attorney will evaluate the damages you suffered and help you file a comprehensive claim.

There are two main types of damages in personal injury cases: compensatory and punitive. Compensatory damages aim to reimburse the victim for the financial losses they suffered. Punitive damages, on the other hand, punish the defendant for their reckless behavior.

Compensatory Damages

Even seemingly minor injuries can lead to chronic pain and ongoing medical issues, disrupting your life and potentially limiting your future opportunities. The persistent pain, coupled with the emotional trauma, can lead to a profound sense of frustration and helplessness.

As a car accident victim, you could claim both economic and non-economic damages. These cover different types of losses you may experience. While economic damages focus on tangible losses, such as medical bills, non-economic damages address the psychological and social impact of the crash.

Types of damages you can receive after a drunk driving crash include:

• Lost earnings and diminished earning capacity
• Medical expenses and the cost of future medical care
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Diminished quality of life
• Loss of companionship

The specific damages you recover depend on the details of your case. A Chicago drunk driving accident attorney will assess the extent of your injuries and factor in medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and potential loss of income. In cases of severe impairment, they may also consider long-term care and emotional distress when building a comprehensive claim.

Punitive Damages

These are awarded only in select personal injury cases in which the defendant’s actions were extremely negligent or intentional. If a drunk driver injured you, the case could qualify for punitive damages.

While some states cap punitive damages, there is no limit on the amount that can be awarded in Illinois. A car crash lawyer will help you prove the negligent driver’s liability and build a case against them.

In Illinois, this absence of a cap underscores the state’s commitment to holding responsible parties accountable and deterring future instances of reckless behavior. Your attorney will skillfully navigate the legal landscape, exploring all avenues for compensation.

Possible Criminal Consequences for Drunk Drivers in Illinois

In addition to the prospect of civil litigation, drunk drivers could face criminal charges. Your attorney might recommend waiting until the conclusion of the criminal trial before initiating a personal injury lawsuit. This is a strategic approach because a guilty verdict in a criminal case can strengthen your position in the civil matter.

Conversely, a not guilty verdict in the criminal trial does not necessarily harm your personal injury case. The burden of proof in a criminal trial is notably higher than in a civil lawsuit, making it possible for a defendant to be acquitted despite a strong likelihood of civil liability.

File a Personal Injury Lawsuit Within Illinois’ Statute of Limitations

In the state of Illinois, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases typically allows two years from the date of the incident to initiate legal proceedings. Waiting beyond this period may result in the forfeiture of your right to pursue a claim.

Initiating the legal process promptly not only ensures compliance with the statute but also increases the chances of a successful outcome. If a lawyer can start working on a case shortly after the crash, they have access to fresh evidence.

Call Our Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys in Chicago, IL, Today

If you were injured in a drunk driving accident, don’t face the legal aftermath alone. An experienced lawyer will help you fight for the compensation you need to rebuild your life. At Morelli Law Firm, we understand the devastation a traffic accident can cause. We offer compassionate legal guidance to injured victims.

Trust a Chicago drunk driving accident lawyer to assess all avenues of compensation. With our help, you can recover your losses and future expenses. Contact us today to discuss a strategy for your case.