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Lawsuits Against Drunk Drivers Who Cause Car Accidents in Michigan

Everyone knows that alcohol impairs someone's ability to drive. Statistics released by the CDC year after year indicate that thousands of people are killed each year in accidents involving alcohol. For people who are hit by a drunk driver in Michigan, it is important to understand that there are legal options for financial recourse.

Drunk Driving is Different from Typical Car Accidents

People need to understand that an accident involving alcohol is different because driving while under the influence of alcohol is against the law. People who are injured in a car accident involving alcohol can pursue legal avenues for compensation from the driver who was drunk; however, this case is going to be a civil case. Therefore, the prosecutor will charge the driver with drunk driving in a criminal court. On the other hand, the case for personal compensation will be sent to civil court.

Seeking Financial Damages

Once the civil case is filed, people need to understand that the case will be filed as one that seeks compensation for injuries. These are called "damages" and there are several different damages that people can pursue:

  • General Damages: These are damages that compensate people for "abstract" losses, such as pain and suffering. These are more subjective than medical injuries or physical damage to property.
  • Specific Damages: These damages are meant to reimburse people for expenses that accrue out of pocket including lost income, medical expenses, and property damage.
  • Punitive Damages: These damages are different from those above because these damages aren't meant to reimburse the claimant for personal losses; however, these damages are meant to punish the driver for their mistake.

Use Caution with Settlement Talk

It is likely that the defendant's insurance company will contact the claimant and try to resolve the case quickly with a settlement. Understand that the insurance company is only working for themselves and people can wind up taking far less than they deserve with a settlement. 

If you are looking for a drunk driving defense attorney, contact The Lucaj Law Firm today.

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