Skilled Evansville Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Committed to Justice

Drunk driving accidents are some of the most preventable tragedies, yet they remain a persistent problem on Indiana roads. Every case represents not just a legal battle but a personal story of loss and resilience. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, our experienced Evansville car accident attorneys work tirelessly to stand up for victims who shouldn’t have to bear the burden of someone else’s reckless decision. We handle every aspect of your case, from navigating complex legal processes to negotiating with insurers and presenting compelling arguments in court.

Whether you’ve sustained life-altering injuries, lost a loved one, or face mounting medical expenses, we’re here to provide the guidance and advocacy you need. With deep expertise in drunk driving accident cases, our team will seek maximum compensation for damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and emotional suffering.

What Are Indiana’s Drunk Driving Laws & Penalties?

Indiana takes drunk driving seriously because of its devastating consequences on public safety. According to recent data, 124 people were killed in alcohol-impaired collisions in Indiana in 2020, representing 14% of all traffic fatalities statewide. Of these fatalities, 72% were drivers, a stark reminder of the direct link between impaired driving and road deaths.

Under Indiana law, a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher qualifies as driving under the influence (DUI). Penalties for drunk driving vary but often include license suspension, fines, mandatory substance abuse programs, and even jail time. Drivers who cause injuries or fatalities while intoxicated face enhanced penalties, reflecting the gravity of their negligence.

Understanding how Indiana’s drinking and driving laws apply to your case is critical for holding the at-fault party accountable. Our drunk driving attorneys are well-versed in these regulations and will use them to your advantage in pursuing justice.

Negligent Parties That May Be Held Accountable

Drunk driving cases often involve more than just the driver. Depending on the circumstances, Indiana law allows for multiple parties to share liability, including those who indirectly contributed to the accident.

  • The drunk driver: Drivers under the influence are directly at fault due to their reckless behavior. Proving their negligence is typically the foundation of any claim.
  • Establishments serving alcohol: Under Indiana’s dram shop laws, bars, restaurants, or other venues may be held liable if they over-serve alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who then causes an accident. Establishing this liability requires evidence, such as witness statements or surveillance footage.
  • Vehicle owners: In some cases, the owner of the car driven by the intoxicated person can be held responsible, especially if they knowingly allowed an impaired individual to drive their vehicle.

By conducting a thorough investigation, your personal injury lawyer will ensure that all responsible parties are identified and held accountable.

Compensation You Can Claim After a Drunk Driving Accident in Evansville

At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we take a comprehensive approach to calculate the full scope of damages you’re entitled to recover.

Economic Damages

Economic losses include medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. For example, victims frequently need ongoing and sometimes lifelong medical treatments—including surgeries and rehabilitation—which creates substantial financial hardship.

Non-economic Damages

Non-economic damages address the personal toll of the accident, such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. These are often harder to quantify but are no less critical to your recovery.

Punitive Damages

In cases where the drunk driver’s behavior demonstrates gross negligence or recklessness, courts may award punitive damages. These aim to penalize the offender and deter similar conduct in the future.

Your Legal Options After a Drunk Driving Accident in Evansville

Navigating the legal aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming, especially while you’re recovering. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we ensure your options are clear and actionable. Your drunk driving lawyer will consider these options and recommend the best path to ensure you get the justice you deserve.

File a Personal Injury Claim

Filing a personal injury claim allows you to recover compensation for damages like medical bills and lost wages. This process involves proving the drunk driver’s negligence and demonstrating how their actions caused your injuries.

Pursue a Dram Shop Liability Claim

Under Indiana’s dram shop laws, victims can hold establishments accountable for over-serving intoxicated patrons. These claims often involve gathering evidence of negligence by the venue or server.

Criminal Proceedings

While criminal charges against the drunk driver can lead to penalties like jail time or license suspension, these proceedings are separate from civil claims. However, a criminal conviction can strengthen your personal injury case.

By working with our team, you can focus on your recovery while we handle the complexities of building your case.

Contact an Evansville Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Today – No Fees Unless We Win

At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we combine over 40 years of experience with compassionate advocacy to fight for drunk driving accident victims. Our dedicated team understands the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take on victims and their families, and we work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to move forward.

Our commitment to your case is backed by our no-win, no-fee guarantee – you don’t pay unless we secure compensation for you. If you’ve been injured or lost a loved one due to a drunk driver’s negligence, contact us today for a free, confidential consultation. Let us help you understand your legal options and guide you through every step of the recovery process.