The statistics are staggering: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reveals that roughly 32% of all traffic crash fatalities in the U.S. involve drunk drivers.
Despite increased awareness and arrests – about 1 million annually, per the CDC – drunk drivers continue to terrorize America’s roadways.
If you or a loved one suffered a serious injury or death in an automotive accident involving a drunk driver, the attorneys at Kline & Specter, PC, may be able to help. With more than 50 attorneys, five of whom are also medical doctors, we have the experience and expertise to litigate cases against intoxicated drivers.
What Drunk-Driving Accident Victims Should Know
If you were injured in a drunk-driving accident, you have the right to pursue financial compensation through a personal injury claim. These cases often involve injuries – broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, etc. – that can lead to lasting physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
Acting quickly is critical. Evidence can disappear, and legal deadlines apply. An experienced attorney can explain your options, determine who may be held responsible, and guide you through the claim-filing process. Don’t wait to explore your legal rights after a crash.
Holding Drunk Drivers Accountable
Drunk-driving crashes can lead to both criminal charges and civil lawsuits. While criminal penalties punish the offender, a civil claim allows injured victims to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and more.
No matter where you live, a personal injury lawsuit can help hold the drunk driver – and potentially other parties – financially responsible. In some states, like Pennsylvania, businesses that served alcohol to an impaired or underage driver may also be liable under dram shop laws.
Kline & Specter handles cases nationwide and can evaluate how local laws affect your claim.
Compensation You May Be Eligible to Pursue
Victims of drunk-driving accidents across the U.S. may be able to recover financial compensation. Common damages include the cost of:
- Emergency treatment
- Surgery
- Physical therapy
- Long-term medical care
If your injuries prevent you from working, you may also seek compensation for lost income and diminished future earning potential.
Beyond financial losses, many victims experience lasting pain, emotional trauma, and diminished quality of life – all of which can factor into a personal injury claim. Kline & Specter evaluates these cases thoroughly and works with medical and financial experts to calculate full damages.
What to Expect During the Legal Process
After a drunk-driving accident, many people don’t know what to expect from the legal process.
Everyone’s experience is unique, but the process typically begins with a consultation. During this meeting, an attorney will review your case and clarify your legal options.
If you decide to move forward, your legal team will gather evidence, consult experts, and handle negotiations or prepare for trial. These cases can take several months or longer, depending on their complexity and whether a settlement is reached.
Why Choose Kline & Specter for Your Drunk-Driving Injury Case?
Since 1995, Kline & Specter has grown from a small practice to one of the nation’s most recognized personal injury firms. Founded by Tom Kline and Shanin Specter, the firm now spans 12 floors in Philadelphia with over 50 attorneys, including five who are also medical doctors – more than any other firm in the U.S. Their track record includes hundreds of multi-million-dollar results. Named a “powerhouse law firm” by The New York Times, Kline & Specter combines legal and medical insight to fight for clients nationwide.
Find Out if You Have a Case Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk-driving accident, you don’t have to face the legal process alone.
Kline & Specter’s team is committed to helping victims hold careless drivers accountable and secure the compensation they need to move forward. Call 215-772-1000 or submit our contact form to discuss your situation and learn how we can help you.
Kline & Specter provides free and confidential evaluations of potential cases. Kline & Specter handles cases in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Delaware, and New York. For cases outside those states, the law firm works with local attorneys in each state as applicable.
Call 800-243-1100 to contact a lawyer for a drunk driving case.