A Gulfport drunk driving accident lawyer can help you build a civil case against an intoxicated driver who caused an accident and injured you in Mississippi. They can take on these cases regardless of the outcome of a criminal trial against the at-fault driver.
Let a member of the team from the Morris Bart law office review your case for free. We can help you understand your rights and the legal options you may have for pursuing compensation you may be entitled to in your case. Call (228) 357-9621 to get started.
Understanding Criminal Versus Civil Drunk Driving Cases
When many people think about drunk driving cases, they likely imagine the police arresting the driver, leading to possible jail time. However, those who operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol and cause an accident may face two types of cases:
- A criminal case
- A civil case
Per Mississippi Code § 63-11-30, a person who drives or otherwise operates a vehicle while intoxicated may face criminal charges. The law extends to:
- Someone who is intoxicated because of drinking.
- Someone who is under the influence of a controlled substance that is illegal in Mississippi.
- Someone whose ability to drive is impaired by another substance.
- Someone whose blood alcohol concentration is above the legal limit based on their age.
If convicted of a criminal charge, the intoxicated driver could face consequences including a license suspension, fines, and jail time. However, this criminal statute has little effect on the accident victims who suffered injuries. This is where a civil case comes in.
As an accident victim, Mississippi civil law allows you to file a personal injury lawsuit against the drunk driver who hit you, regardless of the outcome of their criminal case. If you can prove their negligence caused your accident, you can hold them accountable and may be entitled to recover compensation for your injuries. A lawyer can help you possibly secure a payout without going to civil court by negotiating a fair settlement with the insurer of the at-fault party.
While a criminal court may hold the driver responsible for breaking the law, civil court allows you to hold them responsible for their reckless behavior, as well as your injuries and losses. The team from the Morris Bart law firm can help you with your drunk driving accident case. Call (228) 357-9621 to get started with a free initial case evaluation.
For a free legal consultation with a Drunk Driving Accident lawyer serving Gulfport, call 800-537-8185
Let Morris Bart, LTD Work on Your Drunk Driving Accident Case
A Gulfport drunk driving accident lawyer can provide representation, guidance, and support after you have received injuries. We understand the emotions that you may be feeling after this type of accident, as it is only natural to feel mad or frustrated after an incident that was no fault of your own.
Whether or not the evidence exists to prove drunk driving, you may still be able to prove the other motorist caused your accident because of their reckless or careless behavior. This may be enough to hold them responsible and recover a payout you may be entitled to for your losses. If there is a guilty verdict in criminal court, this can help your case.
Gulfport Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Near Me 800-537-8185
Recovering Damages in a Drunk Driving Accident Case
Working with a Gulfport Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer, you may be able to build a case strong enough to negotiate a fair settlement. However, should you be unable to successfully settle, your attorney will be able to protect your rights to fair compensation by taking the case to court for judgment. However, most auto accident cases are resolved before you ever reach court.
This process may allow the victim to recover a number of different damages, including:
- Current and future treatment for accident injuries
- Lost wages and reduced capacity to earn
- Property damages, including vehicle repairs
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Other non-economic damages
- Wrongful death damages after a fatal accident, recoverable by surviving family members
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Deadlines for Taking Legal Action in a Gulfport Car Accident
Mississippi only gives personal injury victims three years from the date of their accident to file a lawsuit under Mississippi Code § 15-1-49. While there are exceptions to this rule, it is imperative that you act before the deadline arrives or you may lose leverage to negotiate a settlement, or even the right to take the case to court.
Consider calling a lawyer as soon as you are able after your drunk driving accident. You do not need to wait for the outcome of the criminal case against the drunk driver. A lawyer can review your case as soon as your injuries are stable, and may be able to begin gathering evidence within days or weeks of your accident.
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Talk to a Member of the Morris Bart, LTD Team
A Gulfport drunk driving accident lawyer can help you seek and recover compensation you may be entitled to for the damages you suffered. The team from the Morris Bart law firm can provide you with a way to ensure the drunk driver is held accountable, regardless of what happens in their criminal case for driving under the influence.
In addition to our Gulfport office, the Morris Bart law firm has15 offices. We serve many parts of the Gulf South, including Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas.
Call (228) 357-9621 for your free case review with a member of our team. We work on a contingency-fee-basis, so you do not have to pay for our services out of pocket if you hire us. We only collect fees if and when we win your case.
Questions?Call 800-537-8185
to find a Morris Bart office near you.
