Bucks County Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Being involved in a drunk driving accident through no fault of your own can be a tragic experience. Dealing with the aftermath and pursuing legal action against the at-fault party takes a lot of strength. We understand the legal process that follows a drunk driving accident can be complex, so our compassionate legal team is prepared to help you determine the best path forward to seek the justice and compensation you deserve.

At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., we have fought tirelessly for the rights of drunk driving accident victims in the Bucks County area for decades. We have the skills and knowledge to handle all aspects of your case and answer your questions while you focus on recovery. 

How to Proceed After a Drunk Driving Accident

If you have sustained injuries after a car accident, you should seek medical care immediately. Not only is this crucial for your health and preventing any long-term issues, but it may also help your legal claim. Once you have seen a medical professional about your injuries, you may also take the following steps:

  • Taking photos and videos of the damage
  • Reporting the accident to the police
  • Taking photos or videos of the drunk driver 
  • Looking for any witnesses and getting their contact information
  • Not posting about the accident online 

Taking these steps after your accident allows you to capture the details in real time, so you do not have to recall them later when they become hazy. You may also want to contact our drunk driving accident lawyers after your accident, so they can look over the details you documented, gather further evidence, and file your claim to better your chances of a successful outcome.

Proving Fault in Pennsylvania Drunk Driving Accidents

When pursuing legal action against a drunk driver, you may assume they are automatically responsible for your injuries, but this is not always the case. For example, if the drunk person came from a bar or establishment that served them alcohol when they were visibly intoxicated, the Pennsylvania Dram Shop Law states the establishment may be liable for the accident. This may also apply to hosts of a private event if they served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated individual. 

Our Bucks County drunk driving accident attorneys may be able to help you identify the details of the situation to determine an at-fault party. That said, no matter who is responsible, you, as the plaintiff, must prove the following four factors:

  • The driver owed you a duty to drive carefully and safely per Pennsylvania law.
  • The driver breached this duty and drove negligently.
  • Their negligence resulted in your injuries.
  • Your injuries caused damages like medical bills and pain and suffering.

It is important to note that Pennsylvania is a modified comparative negligence state. This means a percentage of fault is assigned to each party based on the facts of the case. You may be 0% at fault for the accident, so you do not have to pay any damages to the other party. But, if you are found 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. You cannot receive any damages if you are over 50% at fault. 

What Potential Damages Can You Recover After a Drunk Driving Accident in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania is a no-fault state, meaning no matter who is at fault for an accident, both parties must turn to their insurance companies for compensation. With the help of our seasoned Bucks County drunk driving accident lawyers, you may be entitled to the following damages:

  • Ambulance ride
  • Hospital bills
  • Current and future medical bills
  • Property damage
  • Lost wages from missed work
  • Rehabilitation
  • Physical therapy
  • Medication
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Reduced quality of life

You may also receive punitive damages if you provide proof that the driver acted out of malice or egregious negligence. These damages are less common and serve as a punishment for the drunk driver instead of a reward for the victim. 

How Can a Lawyer Help With Your Drunk Driving Accident Claim?

After sustaining injuries in an accident involving a drunk driver, healing should be your top priority. This can be hard to do if you attempt to pursue legal action on your own. Fortunately, we may be able to support you throughout the entire claims process and help you in the following ways:

  • Conducting a thorough investigation of your case
  • Gathering evidence like police reports, medical records, witness testimony, and video footage
  • Using legal knowledge to answer all your questions
  • Negotiating with your insurance companies and tracking offers and counteroffers
  • Taking your case to court if necessary
  • File your claim properly and within the two-year statute of limitations

Managing these responsibilities may seem stressful, but we have the experience to curate your case to alleviate your worries and take a weight off your shoulders. 

Speak with a Pennsylvania Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer at Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C. 

If you have sustained injuries due to the negligence of a drunk driver, you have the right to pursue financial compensation and seek the justice you deserve. But, the claims process can be complicated, and you may find it challenging to figure out where to start. At Rubin, Glickman, Steinberg & Gifford, P.C., we may be able to help you get started and advocate for your rights and a fair settlement.

Our professional legal team has provided the Bucks County area with our award-winning legal services for over 65 years. We are well-versed in drunk driving laws and commit ourselves to examining all aspects of your case, negotiating with insurance companies, and holding the at-fault party accountable. To schedule a free consultation, fill out our contact form or call us at (215) 822-7575.