Drunk Driving Car Accidents in Loveland

When you are hit by a drunk driver, the aftermath can be nearly as stressful as the wreck itself. In addition to your physical injuries, you may have to deal with insurance companies and make repairs to your vehicle, all of which can add to your financial burden. Sometimes, you may be called to testify in the criminal case against the drunk driver.

Working with an attorney experienced in handling drunk driving car accidents in Loveland could relieve some of your stress. A skilled car accident lawyer could protect your rights after an accident and help you receive fair compensation for your losses.

Responsibility for Drunk Driving Accidents

In any lawsuit filed to recover damages after an injury, the injured person must prove the other driver caused their injuries through either an intentional action or one that was negligent, reckless, or careless.

In some situations, other people or entities may hold additional responsibility for the accident. Colorado enacted a “dram shop” law in Colorado Revised Statute § 44-3-801, which says if a restaurant or bar serves an alcoholic beverage to a person who is either visibly intoxicated or under 21 years old, the establishment may be responsible for any damage or harm the intoxicated person causes. A Loveland attorney with experience in drunk driving car crashes could determine whether dram shop liability is appropriate or possible.

When Is the Deadline For Bringing a Claim?

If filing a lawsuit becomes necessary after an accident involving an intoxicated driver in Loveland, certain time limits will apply; if a case is filed after the appropriate deadline it will be dismissed and the injured person’s options to recover will be severely limited. For a claim against the drunk driver,  C. R. S. §13-80-101 provides that the lawsuit must be filed within three years of the date of the accident. For a claim against an establishment that served an intoxicated person,  C. R. S. § 44-3-801 provides that the lawsuit must be filed within a year of the date the bar or restaurant served the drunk driver.

A strong lawsuit takes time to prepare, and an experienced personal injury lawyer could effectively investigate a case and gather the necessary evidence while witnesses’ memories are fresh and before evidence is lost or destroyed.

Ask a Loveland Attorney to Handle Your Drunk Driving Car Crash Lawsuit Today

When you are hurt by a drunk driver, you have enough on your plate in recovering from your injuries. An experienced lawyer could help manage your legal case, negotiate with insurance companies and other lawyers, and assist in recovering fair compensation for what you lost in the crash.

Schedule a consultation with an attorney familiar with drunk driving car accidents in Loveland to learn more about how they could help you.