Ashland Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Receiving a driver’s license comes with an implicit responsibility to operate your vehicle safely, in accordance with traffic laws. Unfortunately, reckless people still make the choice to get behind the wheel drunk, which is why 30% of traffic fatalities in the United States are attributed to impaired driving. If you or a loved one was hit by an intoxicated motorist, our Ashland, OR drunk driving accident lawyer can guide you through the legal process to pursue compensation. At Andersen & Linthorst, our team understands how impactful a crash is on you physically, emotionally, and financially. We will explain your legal options with guidance, compassion, and dedication.

Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Ashland, OR

Oregon has very strict laws pertaining to intoxicated driving. A motorist is considered to be “under the influence” if their blood alcohol content is 0.08 or higher. There is a zero-tolerance law for motorists under the age of 21. Alcohol slows reaction times and impairs your judgment, leading to disastrous consequences behind the wheel. Unfortunately, crashes involving intoxicated drivers tend to be more severe, often resulting in catastrophic injuries and death.

If you were harmed by a drunk driver, your case for compensation falls under Oregon’s personal injury laws. Like any other car accident claim, as a victim, you may be able to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, vehicle repairs, and pain and suffering. However, our Ashland drunk driving accident lawyer may also suggest pursuing punitive damages. This additional compensation amount is not usually considered in vehicle collision cases; however, operating a car or truck while under the influence is considered an act of gross negligence. Therefore, a judge is more likely to award an additional settlement figure as a form of financial punishment and to deter repeat behavior.

Sadly, a high percentage of drunk driving accidents end in fatalities. If your loved one was killed in a crash, you or another immediate family member may be eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit. These claims help families recover financial losses and emotional damages from the unexpected passing of their loved one.

Why Experience Matters In Drunk Driving Accident Cases

The intoxicated driver is likely facing criminal charges in addition to the civil lawsuit you could potentially file. Whether or not they were arrested does not prohibit you from moving forward with a personal injury claim. However, a guilty verdict or plea could help your case. Our car accident attorney understands how these two areas of law intersect and can give you tailored advice about when to file. There is a statute of limitations in Oregon, so you can’t delay taking action too long. When you work with our personal injury legal team, we handle these details, preventing mistakes and unnecessary complications.

Usually, the challenge with personal injury cases is determining who is liable. But when a drunk driver is involved, blame is clear. The difficulty becomes securing a settlement award that encompasses all of your losses. Our goal is always to win maximum compensation, and our qualifications put us in a unique position to achieve justice on your behalf:

• A team of esteemed, award-winning attorneys
• Over 65 years of combined experience
• Track record of securing multi-million dollar settlements

If you have been injured and aren’t sure what steps to take next, call Andersen & Linthorst. We believe in working with integrity and are committed to delivering experience, focused legal services to victims in Oregon. You don’t have to take on the intoxicated driver, their insurance company, or the legal system alone. Instead, partner with our Ashland drunk driving accident lawyer who will take control of your case and fight for maximum compensation under the law. Contact our office to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation today.