Whether or not insurance covers an accident if you were drunk depends entirely on your specific insurance policy. However, it is very common for Louisiana car insurance policies to still cover vehicle damage and the damages caused to other individuals after a drunk driving accident. If you are unsure what your coverage is, you can review it with your agent or a skilled attorney.
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Metairie Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Drunk Driving Accident Attorney In Metairie, LA
You should not be responsible for the costs of an accident caused by a drunk driver. When someone is so incredibly negligent, they should be held responsible for that. If you have been involved in a drunk driving accident, it is crucial that you find an experienced Metairie drunk driving accident lawyer. They can help you hold the driver civilly liable for the financial losses you have suffered.
Murphy Law Firm has spent more than 30 years upholding the rights of those injured in car accidents, including those hurt by reckless, drunk drivers. We know the immense physical, psychological, and financial losses that happen because of these crashes, and the toll it can take on you and your family. We have secured many settlements and verdicts for those in car accidents, ranging from as high as $3.3 million to $18.9 million.
Our personal injury lawyer team provides you with compassionate support during this overwhelming time in your life. We fight for you and protect your financial future, while you take the time you need to recover physically and rest.
Driving Under the Influence in Jefferson Parish
It is incredibly dangerous to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Crashes caused by impaired driving are disproportionately likely to lead to fatal accidents. In Jefferson Parish, there were 23 fatal crashes in 2024, five of which were alcohol-related, meaning nearly 22% of fatal crashes were alcohol related. In comparison, nearly 6% of injury crashes and only 2% of property damage-only crashes were alcohol related.
Operating a vehicle impaired is the offense of having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or being impaired by any alcohol or other substance. Three drivers involved in fatal crashes in Jefferson Parish had a BAC of between 0.10% and 0.20% in 2024, while one driver had a BAC of over 0.20%.
When someone operates their vehicle impaired, they put themselves and their passengers in danger, as well as all the others on the road. Being under the influence affects you in several ways:
- It lowers your reaction speeds.
- It makes it harder to concentrate.
- It limits your ability to make reasonable choices.
These all increase the chances of an accident. Statistics reveal that drunk drivers tend to survive crashes more often than their victims, a sobering reminder of the dangers of impaired driving.
If you have been involved in a crash, it is essential to call 911. After you are able to leave the scene of the accident, you should get medical care on top of any emergency treatment you secured on site. Ochsner Medical Center – New Orleans is located near Metairie, on 1514 Jefferson Highway in Jefferson.
What Damages Can You Recover After a Drunk Driving Accident in Metairie?
A claim for a drunk driving accident will typically recover compensatory damages, which include both economic and non-economic damages. The damages you recover depend directly on what your losses were from the accident.
Economic damages are financial losses directly associated with the injury. They include losses like:
- Medical costs, including existing bills, future treatment, and expected costs for complications, for medication, hospital stays, physical therapy, and other required costs.
- Lost wages during the period of time you were recovering from your injuries before returning to work, or work you must miss to make doctor’s appointments.
- Reduced earning capacity if you can only work part-time, you have to enter a new field of employment, or you cannot return to work at all.
- Property damages, such as the cost to repair or replace or vehicle or other damaged personal property
Non-economic damages are intangible losses that are still recognized by the court as actual losses. They include:
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Disability
- Disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
There are also exemplary damages, which are different from compensatory damages. When you are hurt by a drunk driver, you may be able to secure exemplary damages in trial, which are called punitive damages in other states. These exemplary damages are awarded to punish the at-fault party for their behavior and can significantly increase your overall settlement. In Louisiana, responsibility may fall on bars or hosts that provide alcohol to visibly intoxicated drivers.
Meet Our Attorney
Peyton Murphy
Peyton Murphy, a Louisiana lawyer with 30+ years of experience, specializes in personal injury cases. He founded Murphy Law Firm in Baton Rouge in 1993 and fights for his clients’ compensation.
FAQs
What Should You Not Say to an Injury Lawyer?
When discussing a drunk driving accident with an Metairie, LA injury lawyer, you want to be honest about your injuries and the accident. An attorney can guide you on the information that they do and do not need. Even if you were partially at fault for an accident, an attorney can still fight for your interests and fight to get the most financial compensation possible.
Is It Worth Getting an Attorney for a Drunk Driving Car Accident?
Yes, In Louisiana, it is very helpful to get an attorney for a drunk driving car accident, because an attorney can:
- Investigate the cause of the accident.
- Determine if the drunk driver was liable for the accident.
- Assess the non-economic and economic damages you sustained.
- Negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
- Determine if you are owed exemplary damages.
- Represent your interests in court.
You are more likely to recover more compensation when you hire a drunk driving accident lawyer.
Can You Sue a Drunk Driver’s Insurance?
In most situations, you can file a claim against a drunk driver’s insurance, but there may be cases where it is not covered or the driver does not have insurance, and the claim is instead filed in civil court. Civil claims may also be filed if the at-fault party’s insurance can’t come to a reasonable settlement. When you work with an attorney, they can determine your methods of receiving compensation and what will likely be most helpful for you.
Find Skilled and Compassionate Metairie Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Today
Insurance companies are not on your side, and working with an attorney can prevent you from being taken advantage of by these companies. Your attorney can assess the full value of your damages, investigate and uncover proof of fault, and negotiate on your behalf with insurers.
When you work with Murphy Law Firm, we provide you with straightforward and exceptional legal care, considering the right option to protect your financial future and secure the financial support you need right now. Reach out to our firm today.
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When you choose Murphy Law Firm, you gain access to a team of experienced attorneys with a proven track record of success. We understand the importance of trust, and we strive to build lasting relationships with our clients by delivering exceptional results.
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