Carter Law Offices, P.C.

Call Us For A Free Consultation  515-644-4871  |  402-979-8675

Carter Law Offices, P.C.

515-644-4871

402-979-8675

Standing Up For Justice And The Underdog

Des Moines Drunk Driving Accident Attorney

Getting hit by a drunk driving can be a life-altering accident. Understanding the impact of drunk driving in our community is crucial for raising awareness and preventing future tragedies. Our Des Moines car accident attorneys at Carter Law Offices, P.C., represent clients who have been hit by drunk drivers in Iowa. They can help you hold a drunk driver accountable for the serious injuries and fatalities caused by their wrongful and entirely preventable behavior.

If you or someone you love has been injured by a driver who was impaired by drugs or alcohol, we will work closely with you and your family to give you the personal attention, compassion and support that you need to recover from your injuries and seek the justice you deserve. We can fight to get you and your family full compensation and prevent the negligent party from ever harming another person.

Comprehensive Representation For Des Moines DUI Injuries

No matter what type of drunk driving accident caused your injuries or damages, we have the experience and resources to help you pursue maximum compensation for your losses. Our Iowa DUI injury attorneys have a history of proven success in a broad range of drunk driving cases, including:

With 30 years of combined experience, our accident lawyers help injured individuals obtain justice and financial compensation for their past and future medical bills, pain and suffering, living expenses, lost wages, future earnings potential, long-term care costs and property damages. We will meticulously investigate the circumstances of your accident and uncover all potential sources of compensation for your injuries.

Filing A Claim And Gathering Evidence After A Drunk Driving Accident

If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, you may feel overwhelmed and unsure of your next steps. If you have been injured by a drunk driver, it is important to know that if you choose to file a claim, you will have the burden of proof and the responsibility of proving that the drunk driver caused your accident injuries.

Gathering evidence that clearly shows the driver was under the influence and caused the accident will be important. This includes the following:

  • Police report: Start by obtaining a copy of the police report, which often includes critical details about the accident and any arrests made at the scene. Police reports can provide strong support for your claim.
  • Photos and videos from the accident scene: Next, collect any photographs or videos from the accident scene. Visual evidence can effectively demonstrate the extent of the damage and the conditions at the time of the accident.
  • Witness statements: Witness statements are also valuable; if there were any bystanders, their accounts could reinforce your version of events.
  • Medical records: Medical records are another crucial piece of evidence. They document your injuries and the treatment you’ve received, linking them directly to the accident. Make sure to keep detailed records of all medical visits, treatments and expenses related to your injuries.
  • Keep a journal: Additionally, maintain a journal of how your injuries have impacted your daily life. This personal account can highlight the pain and suffering you’ve endured, which is an important aspect of your claim.

Once you’ve gathered your evidence, consult an experienced car accident lawyer. At Carter Law Offices, P.C., our drunk driving accident lawyers can provide legal guidance on filing a claim. They want you to be able to focus on your recovery.

How To Prove A Drunk Driver Was At Fault

Proving fault in a drunk driving accident can help in securing compensation and holding the responsible party accountable. While it may seem straightforward, establishing liability requires solid evidence.

With the right documentation and legal guidance, you can build a strong case to prove the drunk driver’s negligence. Gathering evidence is essential in proving that a drunk driver caused the accident. Some of the most valuable pieces of evidence include:

  • Police reports and arrest records: Officers responding to the scene document key details and may conduct sobriety tests or arrests.
  • Witness statements: Bystanders, passengers or other drivers may provide important testimony about erratic driving behavior or signs of intoxication.
  • Video footage: Dashcams, traffic and security cameras may capture the driver’s actions before and during the crash.
  • Physical evidence: Skid marks, vehicle damage or debris can help reconstruct the accident and demonstrate reckless driving.
  • Breathalyzer or blood test results: These measure the driver’s Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) and can confirm impairment.

Various forms of evidence can be used to establish that the driver was under the influence:

  • BAC test results: A BAC of 0.08% or higher is considered legally impaired.
  • Field sobriety test results: If the driver fails a walk-and-turn or balance test, it can indicate intoxication.
  • Witness testimony: Statements from those who observed the driver slurring speech, stumbling or behaving erratically can strengthen the case.
  • Medical records: If the drunk driver sustained injuries, toxicology reports from hospital records may further confirm intoxication.

Proving that the driver was impaired is not enough. There must be a direct link between their intoxication and the accident. This involves demonstrating reckless behavior, such as:

  • Speeding or swerving
  • Running a red light or stop sign
  • Failing to yield or making unsafe lane changes

If you can prove that the driver’s impairment led to these negligent actions, it strengthens the argument that they were at fault.

Our Des Moines drunk driving accident attorney can help you handle the legal process and maximize your chances of obtaining justice. If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident, seek immediate legal guidance to protect your rights.

Iowa Drunk Driving Statistics

In 2022, Iowa Department of Public Safety data showed that 35% of Iowa’s fatal crashes involved an impaired driver. In December 2021 alone, almost 1,100 drivers were charged with OWI (operating while intoxicated) on Iowa roads, with about 25% of those being second and third offenses. These figures highlight the significant concern of drunk driving in the state and the recurring nature of such offenses.

Consult A Des Moines Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer For Free

If you have been hit by a drunk driver, we are here to help. Call our office at 515-644-4871 or 402-979-8675, or contact us via email. We offer a free initial consultation, and in-home, weekend or evening appointments are available upon request.

Our Des Moines drunk driving accident attorneys represent clients throughout Iowa, and we are also equipped to handle cases in Nebraska, Minnesota and Georgia. Personal injury cases are taken on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we win compensation for you.