Valley Stream Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers

Dedicated Legal Advocacy in Nassau County

Drunk driving accidents are some of the most tragic and devastating accidents that can occur on New York City area roads. When a driver is drunk behind the wheel of a vehicle, they are not only putting their own lives at risk but the lives of everyone else on the road with them.

When these accidents occur, innocent victims are often left with serious injuries and life-altering conditions. They may be forced to miss work for long periods of time and may have to undergo extensive medical treatment. They may even be permanently disabled as a result of the accident.

In these cases, the injured party may be able to file a personal injury lawsuit against the drunk driver. If they are successful, they may be able to recover compensation for their injuries and damages. This can help them pay for their medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other expenses.

At Nass Roper & Levin, P.C., we understand how devastating drunk driving accidents can be. We also know how to fight for the justice our clients deserve. If you or someone you love has been injured in a drunk driving accident, we encourage you to contact us for a consultation today. We can answer your questions and help you learn more about your legal options.

Call (718) 775-3246 or contact us online to get started with a case evaluation.

What Is Considered "Drunk Driving" in New York?

There are several different ways in which a driver can be considered "drunk" in New York. 

The state's "DWI" statute defines "drunk driving" as driving a vehicle when:

• A driver's blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or higher
• Drivers who are under the influence of drugs or a combination of alcohol and drugs
• Drivers who are less than 21 years old and have a BAC of .02% or higher
• Drivers who are driving a commercial vehicle with a BAC of .04% or higher

The state also has a "DWAI" statute that defines "driving while ability impaired" as driving a vehicle when:

• A driver's blood alcohol content is .04-.07%
• A driver shows evidence that they are mentally or physically impaired

What Damages Can I Recover in a Drunk Driving Accident Lawsuit?

In a personal injury lawsuit, you can recover compensation for all of the damages you have suffered as a result of the accident. This compensation is meant to cover all of your current and future medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other damages.

The damages you can recover will depend on the circumstances of your case. Some of the most common damages that can be recovered in a drunk driving accident lawsuit include:

• Medical bills and expenses
• Property damage
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of consortium
• Punitive damages

In many cases, punitive damages are also awarded. These are meant to punish the defendant for their negligent or reckless behavior. Punitive damages are not meant to compensate the victim but to punish the defendant.

What Is the Statute of Limitations for Drunk Driving Accidents in New York?

In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is typically three years from the date of the incident. However, the circumstances of your case may extend or shorten the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit. The best course of action you can take is to contact a drunk driving accident attorney as soon as you can to ensure that you do not miss any important deadlines.

How Do I Prove That The Other Driver Was Intoxicated During The Accident?

Proving that the other driver was intoxicated at the time of an accident is a critical component of your personal injury case. As experienced Valley Stream drunk driving accident lawyers, we employ several strategies to establish the other driver's intoxication.

First and foremost, police reports are crucial. When law enforcement arrives at the scene, they usually perform field sobriety tests and administer breathalyzer tests. If the driver's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) measures 0.08% or higher, this will be noted in the police report, providing strong evidence of intoxication.

Eyewitness accounts can be highly influential when it comes to proving intoxication as well. Passengers, other motorists, or bystanders might have noticed the at-fault driver's behavior before and following the crash. Observations of erratic driving, slurred speech, and the odor of alcohol are factors that witnesses can testify to, bolstering your case.

Additionally, obtaining the results of any chemical tests performed on the driver is crucial. These tests, conducted either at the scene or afterward, provide objective data regarding the driver's BAC level. Our drunk driving accident attorneys in Valley Stream can help acquire these records and ensure they are presented effectively in your case.

Video evidence from traffic cameras, dashcams, or nearby surveillance cameras can also offer concrete proof. This footage might capture the driver's erratic behavior or the moments leading up to the accident, reinforcing the claim of intoxication.

Lastly, if the driver was arrested and charged with DUI, court records from the criminal case can serve as powerful evidence in your lawsuit.

Seeking Justice and Compensation: Valley Stream Intoxicated Driving Accident Lawyers at Your Service

Drunk driving accidents can result in serious physical injuries and significant legal consequences. In New York, operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is illegal and can attract legal penalties. If you or a family member has been involved in such an incident, it is crucial to be aware of the legal ramifications and understand your rights.

Our skilled Valley Stream intoxication accident attorneys can assist you in navigating the court system's intricacies and fight for the money you are due. We'll put in endless effort to make the guilty party answerable for their negligence and pursue compensation for your losses.

Schedule an Initial Consultation Today

At Nass Roper & Levin, P.C., we are ready to take on your case and fight for the compensation you deserve. Our attorneys have the knowledge and experience to represent you and your interests in the courtroom. We are committed to providing our clients with the compassionate and dedicated legal advocacy they need and deserve.

To learn more about your legal options, please contact us online or call (718) 775-3246.