Drunk Driving Accidents Lawyer in Denver CO
Impaired driving is a major problem in Denver Colorado and the surrounding area. In 2021, there were 691 drunk driving-related car accidents resulting in someone being killed or injured. And, with the relatively recent legalization of recreational marijuana in Colorado and specific DUI accidents, there are even more crashes due to impaired drivers.
If you were in an accident with a driver who was under the influence of cannabis, our DUI accident lawyer in Denver Colorado can determine if you have a case and, if so, help you move forward through the legal process. After all, drivers impaired by cannabis are subject to the same laws as those who are impaired by alcohol.
Motor vehicle accidents also known as car accidents are a common occurrence in the Denver area and throughout Colorado. The Colorado Department of Transportation (PDF here) reports:
The Colorado Department of Transportation (PDF here) released information detailing the primary causes of auto crashes in Colorado in 2019:
We meet with you or your loved ones as soon as possible after your DUI accident in Denver Colorado. Our team will gather the evidence needed to build your case. The initial process usually involves your opening your insurance claims, evaluating and updating the damages you incurred, and fully exploring possible sources of compensation for your injuries. We can also assist you in finding medical or financial assistance and finding the best providers to fit your individual needs. If you are injured in a traffic accident involving a DUI driving accident, speak with our DUI accident attorneys in Denver for a free consultation.
A major DUI accident injury in Denver Colorado can cost you a fortune in medical fees, lost wages, and property damage. It could also cause pain and suffering, as well as possible impairment. We’ll coordinate with your insurance company to help get you compensation for these economic, non-economic and punitive damages.
If the at-fault party’s or your own insurance company refuses to provide you with a proper settlement, we won’t hesitate to help you file a lawsuit against them. Our attorneys in Denver Colorado provide aggressive legal representation to help make sure you get the financial and medical reparation you deserve.
The final decision to settle in a DUI driving under the influence accident case is entirely the client’s decision. We understand that this can be a daunting decision. Our lawyers at Larson Larimer Schneider will discuss with you the fairness of the insurance company’s settlement offer and the potential risks and advantages of moving forward with a lawsuit. We will be available to answer any questions you may have.
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What to do after a DUI (Driving Under the Influence) Accident?
Being involved in a drunk driving accident in Denver Colorado can be confusing and frustrating, especially if you or a loved one has been badly injured. The best first step is always to get immediate medical attention. The burden of proof in a drunk driving accident case in Denver is enough evidence to prove the drunk driver more likely than not caused the collision.
Once you’ve received proper care, we recommend taking the following steps:
What are the drunk driving laws in Colorado?
Colorado has strict laws that punish drunk drivers, as well as bar/tavern owners in the event of a DUI accident. Under Colorado statutes, CRS 42-4-1301, the term “driving under the influence” means driving under the influence of alcohol, one or more drugs, or a combination of alcohol and drugs. First DUI is a misdemeanor.
Legal Limits. It’s illegal in the state of Colorado for anyone with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.8% and above to drive a vehicle. Additionally, a driver is considered impaired if they have five or more nanograms of delta 9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) per milliliter. For drivers under the age of 21, the state enforces a zero-tolerance law in which a BAC of .02% to .05% could result in a conviction.
The Dram Shop Law. The state’s dram shop law states that an establishment serving intoxicating substances to a customer who is already drunk may be liable if that person eventually causes injury, damage, or death. It means that if you’re one of the victims, you may also sue the bar that accommodated the orders of the person, on top of the person who caused the accident.
Penalties of DUI Cases. DUI penalties may include automatic driver’s license suspension, fines, and a long list of fees. As stated by the Colorado Department of Transportation (PDF here), average costs associated with a first-time DUI can total $13,530.
What damages can be recovered from DUI Accident in Colorado?
If a drunk driver hits you or runs you over, you may file a civil case against them to get compensation for economic damages, such as medical bills, lost wages, and auto repairs along with a personal injury attorney in Denver Colorado.