Avoiding Common Legal Mistakes
Understandably, the average South Carolinian has limited knowledge of legal proceedings. With the skilled counsel of a wrongful death attorney, you can avoid common mistakes after a car accident, including fatal DUI crashes. Let our experience guide you through this difficult process and avoid common missteps that may jeopardize your path to financial restitution.
Collecting Vital Evidence to Support Your Case
To win a civil suit, you must not only prove who was at fault in the car accident, but also that your loved one’s wrongful death was the direct result of their negligence. This involves gathering specific evidence to support both aspects of your claim. Your lawyer will investigate your case and seek out such vital evidence as:
- Witness reports, including from events before the collision itself
- Expert witness testimony, like medical experts and accountants
- Photo and video evidence from the accident scene
- Dashcam, body cam, and security camera footage
- Police reports
- Medical reports
- Blood alcohol concentration (BAC) test results and drug screenings
- Records from before the accident, like bar and restaurant receipts, GPS records, and social media activity
Identifying All Sources of Compensation
When filing a lawsuit after a fatal drunk driving accident, many people assume they can only sue the driver. This isn’t always the case. During the investigation, your lawyer evaluates all possible sources of compensation. For example, if the case involves a collision with a commercial truck driver, additional liable parties may include the fleet company or truck owner. In other cases, the negligent motorist may be held responsible, but also restaurants that served alcohol to them, home party hosts, and passengers.
Negotiating With Insurance Companies for Settlement
Insurance companies are motivated to minimize the amount of your claim, often trying to deny it altogether. Don’t accept the first settlement offer. Instead, consult with your lawyer who can properly value your claim and fight for maximum compensation. Damages may include lost wages, medical expenses, funeral costs, and punitive damages.
Taking the Claim to Court If Needed
If an agreement isn’t reached with insurers, the case may be taken to trial. This is true for both wrongful death and survival action cases, which are typically filed together. Your lawyer will represent your interests in court and advocate for a positive ruling.
Trust the Experience of Christopher Pracht and Our Team
Wrongful death lawsuits for victims killed by drunk drivers are never easy. It’s vital to have skill and expertise on your side if you hope to get the fair compensation you and your family deserve during this difficult time. Pracht Injury Lawyers has a proven track record of successfully representing our clients through wrongful death cases. We were able to successfully secure over $2 million for a family after a loved one died in a fatal collision with a commercial vehicle. The family of a drowning victim received over $20 million in settlement of their case. We’ve achieved these results before and we endeavor to deliver equal justice for your family.
