Few accidents on the road are as unjust as a collision caused by an impaired driver. Unlike crashes that result from inattention or an unexpected hazard, driving under the influence is a choice. When that choice injures someone, the consequences can be catastrophic.
Our legal team at Hull & Zimmerman, P.C., seeks justice for victims of drunk driving car accidents in Longmont and the surrounding area. People injured by impaired drivers deserve more than a quick settlement offer that may not meet their needs or address what they have suffered. When you hire our firm, you work directly with a car collision attorney who will understand what you have lost, what the local laws are, and what compensation you deserve.
How Intoxicated Drivers Cause Devastating Injuries
Drunk drivers do not swerve to avoid hazards and often strike other vehicles at full speed, resulting in far more severe injuries than those seen in typical car accidents. Impaired drivers cause a disproportionate share of Longmont’s most serious auto crash injuries, and the physical toll of these accidents can last for years. The most common injuries in these cases include:
- Severe burns or lacerations resulting from post-impact fires or broken glass
- Broken and crushed bones requiring surgery and extensive rehabilitation
- Internal organ damage that may not be immediately apparent
- Traumatic brain injuries, ranging from concussions to permanent cognitive impairment
- Spinal cord injuries resulting in partial or complete paralysis
- Psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder
After an accident with an intoxicated driver, you should seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel that your injuries are minor. Adrenaline can mask pain, and some serious injuries require imaging and evaluation to detect. It is equally important that you report the accident to law enforcement. The police report, along with any criminal charges filed against the driver, will play a meaningful role in your civil injury claim.
Could You Be Entitled to More Than Standard Compensation?
Most personal injury claims seek compensatory damages to cover the victim’s losses. These may include:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
These damages alone can be substantial, particularly when injuries are severe and long-term care is needed. However, courts can award punitive damages if the driver’s conduct was especially reckless and demonstrated a disregard for the safety of others. These damages punish the at-fault driver and deter repeat behavior. Courts have consistently found that choosing to drive while under the influence meets this level of negligence.
For victims of auto collisions with drunk drivers in Longmont, this means the total value of a claim can extend meaningfully beyond what a standard car accident case would produce. Our dedicated team can evaluate the specific facts of your case and help you determine whether pursuing punitive damages is a realistic option.
Call a Longmont Lawyer About an Impaired Driver Auto Wreck
Victims of drunk driving car accidents in Longmont have the right to pursue accountability and full compensation. That legal process begins with hiring a lawyer who will give your case the attention it deserves.
When you contact Hull & Zimmerman, P.C., for a free consultation, you speak directly with an attorney, not a case manager, and leave with a clear understanding of your options and what comes next. Call us today to learn more about how our team can help with your claim.
