Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Greer
When a careless driver chooses to get behind the wheel while intoxicated, the consequences can be life-altering for innocent victims. At Langley Law Firm, we stand up for those who have been hurt or lost loved ones in drunk driving accidents throughout Greer and the surrounding areas. As a drunk driving accident lawyer, we are committed to holding reckless drivers accountable and pursuing the full compensation you deserve. If you’ve been injured due to someone else’s irresponsible choices, call us today at (864) 667-6144 to schedule your free consultation and take the first step toward justice.
Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Injury in Greer
Being hit by a drunk driver can turn your life upside down in a matter of seconds. Injuries, property damage, and emotional trauma often follow. If you’re dealing with the aftermath of such an accident in Greer, knowing what to do next can help you protect your health, your rights, and your financial recovery.
Prioritize Your Safety and Health
The most important step after any accident is to make sure you and anyone else involved are safe. If you are able, move to a secure location away from traffic. Call 911 immediately.
Even if your injuries seem minor, you should still get checked by a medical professional. Some injuries, including concussions and internal damage, may not show symptoms right away. Medical documentation also becomes critical later when filing a personal injury claim.
Call Law Enforcement
In South Carolina, calling the police is required for accidents that result in injury or significant property damage. When officers arrive, let them know that you suspect the other driver was under the influence. Avoid speculating or accusing anyone outright, but stick to the facts. Officers are trained to observe signs of impairment and may conduct field sobriety tests or a breathalyzer test.
The police report created at the scene will serve as an important piece of evidence. It may include witness statements, the officer’s observations, and whether the at-fault driver was arrested for DUI.
Gather Information and Evidence
If you’re physically able to do so, start collecting information at the scene. You’ll want to get:
- The other driver’s name, license number, and insurance information
- Names and contact details of any witnesses
- Photos of the vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, and visible injuries
The more documentation you gather early on, the easier it will be to support your case later. Drunk driving accidents often involve criminal charges, but a personal injury claim is handled separately. Evidence you collect now could help your lawyer build a stronger case on your behalf.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
You need to notify your insurance provider about the accident, even if you weren’t at fault. Provide them with the basic facts of the crash, but avoid making any statements about your injuries or accepting blame. It’s best to speak with an attorney before giving a recorded statement to the insurance adjuster.
Insurance companies are not on your side. They are primarily focused on minimizing payouts. An experienced attorney can help ensure you don’t say something that could be used against you later.
Understand the Role of Criminal Charges
In many drunk driving cases, the at-fault driver will face criminal charges. This is handled by the local prosecutor and may involve penalties such as license suspension, fines, or jail time. While this can deliver a sense of justice, it does not result in compensation for your injuries.
That’s where a civil personal injury claim comes in. You can sue the drunk driver for damages like medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more. In some cases, you may also be entitled to punitive damages. These are awarded to punish particularly reckless behavior, such as driving under the influence.
Speak With a Personal Injury Lawyer
The sooner you consult a personal injury lawyer, the better. An attorney who handles drunk driving cases in Greer can investigate your accident, gather evidence, deal with the insurance companies, and help you understand your options.
Many accident victims don’t realize the full value of their claims. An experienced lawyer can calculate both current and future damages, such as ongoing medical treatment or permanent disability. They can also ensure you meet important deadlines, like South Carolina’s three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.
Avoid Quick Settlement Offers
After a drunk driving crash, the insurance company for the at-fault driver may reach out with a settlement offer. While it might seem like a good idea to accept and move on, these early offers are often far below what your claim is actually worth.
You only get one chance to settle. Once you accept, you give up the right to pursue further compensation—even if your condition worsens later. Always review any offer with your lawyer before signing anything.
Know What You Can Be Compensated For
Compensation in a drunk driving injury case isn’t just limited to medical bills. Depending on the details of your case, you may be able to recover damages for:
- Emergency room and hospital care
- Physical therapy or rehabilitation
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
In particularly reckless cases involving intoxication, South Carolina courts may also award punitive damages to hold the driver accountable and deter similar behavior in the future.
Document Your Recovery
Keeping records of your medical treatment, pain levels, and how the injury affects your day-to-day life can make a big difference in your claim. Start a journal or use an app to track:
- Doctor’s visits and prescriptions
- Missed work or reduced job performance
- Sleep disturbances or mental health struggles
- Limits on your normal activities
These details may seem small, but they help paint a clear picture of how the crash impacted your life—and support your claim for fair compensation.
Your Greer Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Is Ready to Fight for You
You shouldn’t have to carry the burden of someone else’s reckless decision to drive drunk. At Langley Law Firm, we are passionate about helping victims of drunk driving crashes reclaim their lives with dignity, support, and strong legal advocacy. Whether you’re facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, or emotional trauma, our team is here to pursue the justice you deserve. Speak with a drunk driving accident lawyer in Greer today by calling (864) 667-6144. Your free consultation is just a phone call away—because you deserve answers, and you deserve a voice.
