Drunk driving accidents can change lives in seconds. Victims often face painful injuries, huge medical bills, and emotional stress that lasts long after the crash. If a drunk driver hurt you or a loved one, you deserve to hold the liable party accountable and recover the compensation you need to rebuild your life.
Good Guys Injury Law helps Salt Lake City residents who have suffered in DUI accidents. Our experienced attorneys know Utah’s drunk driving laws and how to fight for your rights. Whether you are seeking payment for medical expenses, lost wages, or emotional pain, our Salt Lake City DUI accident lawyer will guide you through the legal process and ensure you get fair treatment.
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Our Salt Lake City DUI Accident Lawyer Protects Your Rights
Our Salt Lake City DUI accident lawyer focuses on helping accident victims get justice after being hit by a drunk driver. We work to prove fault, gather evidence, and deal directly with the insurance company so you can focus on recovery.
From investigating the accident scene to representing you in court, we fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Understanding Utah DUI Accident Laws
Utah has strict laws designed to prevent drunk driving accidents and protect accident victims. Drivers who break these laws face serious consequences, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
Utah’s DUI Legal Limit and Penalties
Under Utah Code § 41-6a-502, the state’s blood alcohol content (BAC) limit is 0.05%, the lowest in the U.S. Drivers who exceed this level can face DUI charges, criminal penalties, and loss of their driver’s license.
Civil Liability for DUI Accidents
Drunk drivers face both criminal charges and civil liability under Utah law. Victims can pursue personal injury cases or wrongful death claims for damages like medical expenses and property damage. Utah’s comparative negligence law (Utah Code § 78B-8-201) may reduce compensation if the victim shares some fault, but they can still recover if they’re less than 50% responsible.
Utah’s Dram Shop Law
Under Utah Code § 32B-15-201, businesses that sell alcohol to visibly intoxicated persons or minors can be held liable if that person causes an accident. This means bars or restaurants could be held liable for drunk-driving crashes.
What To Do After a DUI Accident in Salt Lake City
- Call 911 Immediately: Contact the police to report the crash and request medical attention for everyone involved. A police officer’s report helps document what happened.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and vehicle damage. Collect contact information for witnesses and the at-fault driver.
- Get Medical Care: Even minor injuries should be checked by a medical professional. Head injuries, crush injuries, and traumatic brain injuries may not show symptoms right away.
- Contact a Lawyer: A Salt Lake City DUI accident lawyer from Good Guys Injury Law can protect your legal rights and handle communication with the insurance company.
- Follow Through with Treatment: Keep your medical records and follow up on all doctor visits to strengthen your claim for fair compensation.
Compensation Available for DUI Accident Victims
DUI accident victims may recover different types of compensation under Utah law. The goal is to help you pay for your losses and restore your quality of life after a serious accident.
Economic Damages
- Medical bills and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages and future income loss
- Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement)
- Costs for medical equipment and ongoing care
Non-Economic Damages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma and mental distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Scarring or disfigurement
Punitive Damages in DUI Cases
Under Utah Code § 78B-8-201, courts may award punitive damages if the drunk driver acted with extreme recklessness or gross negligence. These damages punish dangerous behavior and help prevent future drunk driving crashes.
How Our Salt Lake City DUI Accident Lawyer Helps You
Working with a Salt Lake City DUI accident lawyer gives you strong support during every step of the legal process. We protect your interests, deal with the insurance company, and push for a fair outcome.
Investigation and Evidence Collection
A strong case starts with a thorough investigation. Our Salt Lake City DUI accident lawyer will gather evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and medical records, to establish fault.
We also review surveillance footage, breath test results, and any information about the drunk driver’s blood alcohol content. This process helps identify liable parties responsible for the drunk driving accident and strengthens your claim for fair compensation.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies
Dealing with an insurance company after a DUI accident can be frustrating and confusing. Our experienced attorneys handle all communication to protect you from quick settlement offers that undervalue your injuries.
We make sure your medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and non-economic damages are fully included in the claim. By standing firm, we help accident victims recover the maximum amount allowed under Utah law.
Taking the Case to Court if Needed
If the insurance company refuses to settle fairly, we are fully prepared to take your DUI case to court. Our experienced attorney team presents solid evidence and fights to prove the at-fault driver’s negligence.
We’ll work to ensure the drunk driver faces full responsibility and that you get the justice you deserve. Our law firm is dedicated to protecting your rights and achieving the best outcome for your personal injury case.
Statute of Limitations for DUI Accident Claims in Utah
Under Utah Code § 78B-2-307, accident victims have four years from the date of the car accident to file a personal injury claim. Waiting too long can prevent you from seeking legal action, so it’s important to contact a car accident attorney as soon as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Accident Claims in Utah
What should I do after a car crash caused by a drunk driver?
After a car crash, seek immediate medical attention and contact the police. Then, reach out to a Salt Lake City DUI accident lawyer who can help hold the drunk driver accountable and begin filing claims for your injuries.
Does Utah’s no-fault system cover drunk driving accidents?
Yes. Under Utah’s no-fault system, your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage pays for medical bills and some lost wages, regardless of who caused the auto accident. You can still pursue a claim against the at-fault party if your injuries are serious.
What if I suffered a serious injury or life-altering injuries in a DUI accident?
Victims with serious injuries or life-altering injuries may seek full compensation from the impaired driver or other responsible parties. A lawyer can help you recover compensation for medical care, lost wages, and future treatment needs.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partly at fault?
Yes. Under Utah law, you can still recover compensation if you are less than 50% at fault for the drunk driving accident. Your percentage of fault will simply reduce the amount you receive.
How do contingency fees work in drunk driving cases?
At Good Guys Injury Law, we work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing up front. Our law firm only gets paid after helping you win or settle your personal injury case, ensuring all Utah residents can afford strong legal representation.
Can a family member file a claim for someone killed by a drunk driver?
Yes. A family member can file a wrongful death claim to hold the drunk driver accountable. This can include funeral expenses, lost income, and emotional losses suffered by surviving relatives.
What are my legal options after being injured in a drunk driving accident?
If you were injured in a drunk driving case, you can use PIP coverage for initial costs and file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. Since Utah enacted strong DUI laws, victims have the right to seek legal options that ensure justice and fair financial recovery.
Contact Our Salt Lake City DUI Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
If you were hurt in a drunk driving accident in Salt Lake City, you don’t have to face the recovery process alone. The experienced personal injury lawyers at Good Guys Injury Law offer compassionate legal support to help you rebuild your life. We understand how devastating car accident cases can be and are committed to fighting for your rights every step of the way.
Our team offers a free legal consultation to help you understand your case and options before moving forward. We offer trusted legal services designed to help you get the full compensation you deserve. You and your family deserve justice, and we’ll work hard to make sure the drunk driver is held accountable.
Contact us today for your free consultation.
