Car accidents involving drunk driving are among the most devastating collisions on Louisiana roads. These preventable tragedies often result in catastrophic injuries, emotional trauma, and life-altering consequences. If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver in New Orleans, the aftermath can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re facing uncooperative insurance companies, mounting medical bills, and an uncertain future.
At Crescent City Personal Injury, we have our dedicated team led by experienced advocate John Radziewicz, who understands the complexities of drunk driving cases. With compassion and tenacity, we fight to hold reckless drivers accountable and help victims recover the compensation they deserve.
How a New Orleans Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help
After a drunk driving accident, you may be left dealing with painful injuries, unexpected expenses, and endless questions about what to do next. A skilled New Orleans personal injury attorney can take the legal burden off your shoulders and fight to protect your future.
Here’s how we help:
1. Investigate the Accident Thoroughly
An experienced personal injury attorney will gather the key evidence to build a strong case. This may include:
- Police reports and arrest records
- Breathalyzer and field sobriety test results
- Surveillance footage or dashcam video
- Accident scene photos and skid mark analysis
- Medical records and doctor statements
- Eyewitness accounts
2. Calculate the Full Extent of Your Damages
The impact of a drunk driving accident goes far beyond your hospital bills. Your legal team will assess both economic and non-economic losses, including:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning potential
- Physical pain and emotional suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Long-term disability and rehabilitation costs
- Punitive damages (in qualifying cases)
3. Handle Insurance Company Negotiations
Insurance adjusters are trained to protect the company’s bottom line. Common tactics include offering low settlements, questioning fault, or delaying claims.
Our attorneys at Crescent City Personal Injury know how to push back against these strategies. We’ll advocate for the maximum compensation, and if the insurer won’t settle fairly, we’re fully prepared to take your case to court.
4. Stand By You Every Step of the Way
From day one to the final resolution of your case, we’re with you. We explain your options, protect your rights, and offer clear, consistent support throughout the legal process.
What Constitutes Drunk Driving in Louisiana?
In Louisiana, driving while intoxicated (DWI) is a criminal offense under La. R.S. § 14:98. A person can be charged with DWI if they operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher (or 0.02% for drivers under 21).
But while criminal charges aim to punish the driver, they don’t compensate victims. That’s where civil personal injury claims come in, giving you a path to financial recovery.
The Scope of the Problem
Drunk driving continues to be a serious public safety issue in New Orleans and throughout Louisiana. These accidents often cause:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and internal bleeding
- Permanent disability or death
- Psychological trauma and PTSD
Recovering from a drunk driving crash involves far more than physical healing, it affects every area of your life.
The Difference Between Drunk Driving and Other Accidents
- A Criminal and Civil Component: Unlike other motor vehicle collisions, drunk driving accidents involve criminal behavior. A conviction under La. R.S. § 14:98 might send the offender to jail, but it won’t cover your medical bills or lost income. That’s why a civil claim is crucial.
- Eligibility for Punitive Damages: Under Louisiana Civil Code Article 2315.4, victims injured by intoxicated drivers may be entitled to punitive damages. These damages aren’t just about compensation, they’re meant to punish the drunk driver and deter others from similar reckless behavior.
To secure punitive damages, your attorney must present clear evidence that the driver was intoxicated and grossly negligent at the time of the crash. Our legal team knows how to meet that high bar.
Common Insurance Company Tactics in Drunk Driving Claims
Even in cases where intoxication seems clear, insurance companies often try to minimize their payout. Watch out for these tactics:
- Lowball Settlement Offers: Quick offers that don’t reflect the true cost of your recovery
- Blaming the Victim: Suggesting that you contributed to the accident
- Dragging Out the Process: Delaying payment to pressure you into settling
A skilled lawyer can anticipate and counter these methods, ensuring you receive fair treatment.
Contact Our New Orleans Personal Injury Attorneys at Crescent City Personal Injury Today
Drunk driving accidents are preventable, and those who cause them must be held accountable. If you or someone you love has been hurt by a drunk driver in New Orleans, let Crescent City Personal Injury fight for your recovery.
Our firm combines years of litigation experience with a personalized approach. We handle the legal challenges so you can focus on healing. Contact us today at 504-608-0084 to schedule a free consultation and let’s discuss your case.