Drunk driving collisions are often catastrophic, leaving injured victims contending with medical bills, a long recovery, and uncertainty about how they will be compensated. While it may be abundantly clear who caused the collision, the injury claims process can still lead to challenges. If you were injured by a driver who was under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you can rely on a Findlay drunk driving accident lawyer to see that you are fairly compensated.
When someone makes the reckless decision to drive while intoxicated, they can devastate lives and families. The injury lawyers at Gervelis Law Firm bring decades of combined legal experience to these cases. We understand which types of evidence hold up in court and how to secure a fair settlement that addresses the hardships you’ve endured.
When you secure legal representation from our firm, you are connected to one of our lead attorneys who takes a hands-on approach to managing your case. We do not pressure clients to accept unfavorable settlements, and we are willing to take any claim to court if that serves the interests of our client.
Trust our award-winning law firm to provide you with the unwavering support your case deserves. Awards and recognition are not guarantees of future results. Selection criteria vary by organization.
In Ohio, there are around 11,000 drunk driving-related crashes a year that result in thousands of injuries. Many drunk drivers are caught on Tiffin Avenue and I-75. The crime rate in Findlay is 23.67 per 1,000 residents, and driving while intoxicated is a criminal offense that can leave the at-fault party facing both criminal charges and civil liabilities.
After a drunk driving crash, it is important to understand that a criminal case does not automatically resolve your injury claim. While prosecutors pursue penalties such as fines, license suspension, or jail time, an injured person must pursue compensation separately through a civil claim.
This process may involve gathering police reports, toxicology results, witness statements, and medical documentation. Insurance coverage, including the driver’s liability policy, plays a central role in determining available compensation. Acting promptly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your ability to recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
A drunk driving collision can leave you contending with more than physical injuries. Even with health insurance, medical bills can quickly pile up. You may be facing financial stress due to missed time from work. When you file an injury claim, you can be compensated for setbacks and hardships that you’ve dealt with. A fair settlement can compensate you for the tangible and intangible harm you endured.
Economic damages include financial losses related to the injury. Some cases may ultimately lead to compensation for non-economic damages, which reflect the physical pain and emotional harm someone suffered from a drunk driving collision.
Attempting to manage your own drunk driving accident case without legal representation could lead to unfavorable outcomes that prevent you from recovering what you are owed. The insurance company you deal with could downplay your injury or delay paying you what you are owed. When you hire a drunk driving accident lawyer, you benefit from their years of experience and understanding of Ohio’s drunk driving accident laws.
A Findlay drunk driving accident attorney can gather evidence, initiate negotiations, and file a claim in court on your behalf. Their understanding of the injury claims process can prove decisive for securing a fair settlement that truly reflects the hardships and setbacks that you endured.
A: Yes. You can pursue compensation for an injury, even if the at-fault party is arrested and faces criminal charges. The criminal and civil courts are two distinct venues for justice that run separately. While the criminal court process focuses on punishing someone found guilty of committing a crime, the civil courts seek financial compensation as a remedy for cases.
A: You can face multiple challenges following a drunk driving injury. If the driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may be left with the option of pursuing a civil court claim. The at-fault party’s insurance company may downplay the harm you suffered. Failing to gather sufficient evidence to back your claim could also lead to unfavorable outcomes, like a lowball settlement offer.
A: In Ohio, the official legal term is OVI, which stands for “Operating a Vehicle Impaired.” While many people still use the term DUI, Ohio law refers to impaired driving offenses as OVI. The charge applies when a person operates a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of substances, or when their blood alcohol concentration exceeds the legal limit. In practice, DUI and OVI are often used interchangeably.
A: You can receive compensation when the at-fault party’s insurance offers a fair settlement. Straightforward cases where liability is not disputed can be resolved within months. More complex cases can take several months or longer to resolve. Legal representation can streamline the process so you stand the strongest chance of securing fair and timely compensation.
Contact Gervelis Law Firm to discuss your case with a trusted Ohio
with a trusted Ohio personal injury attorney.
If you were injured by a drunk driver, you have the right to pursue compensation for the harm you suffered. The injury lawyers at Gervelis Law Firm can guide you through the claims process and pursue accountability from the impaired driver. Our team understands the steps required to build a strong case and seek a fair settlement.
At every stage, we keep you informed about important developments and next steps. We understand the financial pressure and emotional toll that often follow a drunk driving crash. By carefully documenting your physical injuries, emotional distress, and financial losses, we can move forward with a clear strategy focused on recovery. Don’t delay. Contact our office today to schedule your consultation.