Seeking Compensation After a Colorado Springs Car Accident Caused by a Drunk Driver
When a drunk driver chooses to get behind the wheel or a car, it can have devastating consequences for the innocent victims of a DUI crash. In the wake of the accident, victims are left with serious injuries, mounting medical bills, and long-term financial consequences.
The Colorado Springs Car Accident Lawyers at The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., understand how establishing driver intoxication plays a major role in proving fault, strengthening your claim, and maximizing available compensation.
How Colorado’s Fault-Based System Applies to DUI Accidents
Colorado follows a fault-based system for car accidents. This means that the person responsible for causing the crash is also responsible for paying damages.
In a drunk driving accident, liability is often clearer than in other types of collisions. Driving under the influence is a violation of the law, and it can serve as powerful evidence that the driver acted negligently, or even recklessly.
Even in DUI cases, insurance companies may still attempt to:
- Minimize your injuries
- Dispute the severity of the crash
- Partially shift the blame onto you
Working with a DUI accident lawyer can help ensure that fault is properly established and that your claim reflects the full impact of the accident.
Why DUI Strengthens a Car Accident Injury Claim
One of the key differences in a DUI injury claim is the role that intoxication plays in proving liability. Evidence that a driver was impaired, such as blood alcohol concentration (BAC) results or field sobriety tests, can significantly benefit your case.
Unlike standard negligence claims, DUI-related cases may rise to the level of gross negligence. This distinction can open the door to additional compensation beyond regular negligence-based damages.
Types of Compensation Available in a DUI Injury Claim in Colorado
Victims of Colorado drunk driving accidents may be entitled to several types of compensation, depending on the circumstances of the case.
- Medical Expenses. This includes emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, and ongoing treatment. Future medical needs may also be considered if injuries require long-term care.
- Lost Wages and Reduced Earning Capacity. If your injuries prevent you from working, you may be able to recover compensation for lost income. In more serious cases, compensation may also account for a reduced ability to earn in the future.
- Pain and Suffering. A drunk driving accident can have lasting physical and emotional effects. Compensation may reflect the pain, distress, and disruption to your daily life.
- Punitive Damages may be available. These damages are not intended to punish particularly reckless behavior and deter similar conduct in the future. Because driving under the influence is especially dangerous, courts may be more likely to consider punitive damages in these cases.
How Evidence Is Used to Build a Solid DUI Injury Claim
An effective DUI injury claim relies on clear, well-documented evidence. Even if there is no criminal conviction, evidence gathered by the police during and after a DUI arrest can be used to strengthen your claim.
An experienced Colorado Springs DUI accident lawyer will gather and analyze the available evidence to develop a case that clearly demonstrates fault and illustrates the full extent of your losses. This may include:
- Police reports documenting the crash and DUI charges
- BAC test results and toxicology reports
- Field sobriety test observations
- Witness statements
- Photos and videos from the accident scene
- Medical records detailing your injuries
Dram Shop Laws in Colorado
Under the state’s dram shop laws, owners, managers and employees of bars, restaurants, and other establishments in Colorado may be held liable for damages that occur when they serve alcohol to a clearly intoxicated patron or an underage driver who later causes an accident.
Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident in Colorado Springs
Taking the right steps after a DUI-related crash can help protect your health and improve your ability to pursue compensation in a personal injury claim or lawsuit. Here’s what you want to do:
- Seek medical attention immediately
- Call law enforcement and ensure a report is filed
- Document the accident scene with photos and videos
- Gather contact information from witnesses
- Avoid discussing fault with police officers, people at the accident scene, and insurance adjusters
- Contact an experienced Colorado Springs DUI accident injury lawyer as soon as possible
Finding the Right Colorado Springs Injury Attorney Can Make a Big Difference
At The Bussey Law Firm, P.C., we approach every case with thorough preparation and a commitment to pursuing the best possible result. Our legal team understands how to build strong Colorado Springs DUI injury claims, challenge insurance companies, and present compelling cases for compensation.
Timothy Bussey is a nationally recognized trial attorney with over 30 years of legal experience. Our firm was listed among the Best Car Accident Lawyers in Colorado Springs by Expertise, and Timothy was selected for the Gold Client Champion award by Martindale-Hubbell.
Speak With a Trusted Car Accident Lawyer in Colorado Springs
If you have been injured by a drunk driver in Colorado Springs, you deserve experienced legal guidance. The Bussey Law Firm, P.C. is prepared to help you pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Call (719) 475-2555 to schedule a free consultation today.
Colorado Springs DUI Accident Injury FAQs
Can I file a claim if I was injured by a drunk driver in Colorado Springs?
Yes. If you were injured in a drunk driving accident, you may be able to file a DUI injury claim against the at-fault driver to recover compensation for your losses. A car accident injury attorney can help you understand your options and guide you through the process.
What types of compensation are available after a Colorado Springs drunk driving accident?
Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other related losses. Punitive damages DUI awards may also be available due to the reckless nature of impaired driving.
How does a DUI accident lawyer prove the other driver was at fault?
A Colorado Springs DUI accident lawyer uses evidence such as police reports, BAC test results, witness statements, and crash investigations to establish fault. This evidence is often more compelling in DUI cases because intoxication directly impacts a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely.
Can a bar or restaurant be held responsible under dram shop laws?
In certain situations, yes. Colorado’s dram shop laws may allow claims against establishments that served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person or a minor who later caused the accident.
