Navigating Drunk Driving Accidents in NY: Essential Legal Guide
Injured in a Drunk Driving Accident in New York? Protect Your Rights
If you’re involved in a drunk driving accident in New York, it’s important to know the facts. Every year, lives are changed because of drivers who drink and drive. These accidents can be very serious, often causing injury or even worse. We’re here to help you understand these accidents and what you can do if you’re ever in one.
Drunk driving isn’t just dangerous; it’s also against the law in New York. When someone drives after drinking too much, they put everyone at risk. Knowing the statistics about drunk driving can help you understand how big this problem is. It’s not just about the person who drank and drove; it’s about keeping everyone on the road safe.
The impact of drunk driving on accident rates is huge. Accidents involving alcohol often lead to more serious injuries or damage. This is because drunk drivers might not be able to control their cars as well or might not see other cars or people on the road. If you or someone you know is hurt in a drunk driving accident, it’s important to get help right away.
New York State Laws on Drunk Driving
In New York, the laws about drunk driving are very clear. DUI (Driving Under the Influence) and DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) are terms used to describe driving after drinking too much. DUI usually means the driver was less able to drive safely because of alcohol or drugs. DWI often means the driver’s blood alcohol level was over the legal limit.
The legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) in New York is 0.08% for drivers over 21. For commercial drivers, it’s even lower, at 0.04%. And if you’re under 21, any amount of alcohol can lead to a DWI charge. Knowing these limits is important because they help keep everyone safe on the road.
If someone is caught driving drunk in New York, the penalties can be serious. They might have to pay a fine, lose their driver’s license, or even go to jail. The penalties get even more serious if someone is hurt or if it’s not the first time the driver was caught. The lawyers of Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C. see how these laws are used to help people who were hurt in drunk driving accidents.
Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident
If you’re in an accident with a drunk driver, the first thing to do is make sure everyone is safe. Check if anyone is hurt and call 911 to file a report. It’s also important to stay at the accident scene and wait for the police to come. They will make a report, which can be very helpful later on. Additionally, if the other driver is intoxicated, the police need to take action for your protection as well as the protection of others.
Taking photos of the accident and getting witnesses’ names and phone numbers can also help. This information can be very important if you need to prove what happened. Remember to get a copy of the police report too. It will have details about the accident that can help your case.
In New York, no-fault insurance means that your insurance company will help pay for your medical bills and lost wages, no matter who caused the accident. But if you’re hurt badly, you might need more help. That’s where the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C. can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Victim’s Rights in Drunk Driving Accidents
If you’re hurt in a drunk driving accident in New York, you have rights. You might be able to get money to help pay for your medical bills, fix your car, and cover other costs. Sometimes, you can even get money for the pain and suffering caused by the accident.
Your own car insurance has personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. This can help pay for your medical bills and lost wages quickly. But PIP might not cover everything, especially if there are serious injuries.
Getting Through the Legal System Following a DUI Accident
When someone is charged with a DUI or DWI in New York, it can affect your case. If the driver is found guilty of drunk driving, it can be easier for you to prove your case in a civil lawsuit. A criminal conviction shows that the driver was responsible for the accident. This can be a strong point in your favor when seeking compensation for your injuries or losses.
However, the legal system can be complicated. You’ll need to understand how a criminal case can impact your civil case. Remember, a criminal case is about punishing the wrongdoer, while a civil case is about getting you the compensation you deserve. If the other party is convicted of driving while under the influence, this will go far in helping to prove your civil claim for damages.
Our attorneys can guide you through this process, making sure your rights are protected. Our team knows how to use the information from the criminal case to strengthen your civil lawsuit. We can handle the legal details while you focus on recovering from your accident.
The Role of a Lawyer in Drunk Driving Cases
Dealing with the aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming. You might be dealing with injuries, car repairs, and insurance companies. Our attorneys at the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C. are here to ease your worries. We’re experienced in handling drunk driving cases and can take on the legal burden for you.
Negotiating with insurance companies can be tricky. They often try to pay as little as possible. Fortunately, through years of experience, we understand the process of dealing with insurers. We’ll fight to ensure you get the full compensation you’re entitled to. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, and compensation for pain and suffering.
When litigating a drunk driving accident case, you want someone on your side who knows the law. Our lawyers have the knowledge and experience to represent you in court. We’ll work tirelessly to ensure your voice is heard, and your rights are respected.
Contact Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C. to Discuss Your Drunk Driving Accident Case
If you or someone you know has been involved in a drunk driving accident in New York, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. At the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C., we understand what you’re going through and are here to help. We can provide the legal guidance and support you need to navigate this difficult time.
You can call us at (516) 294 5050 to speak with one of our attorneys. We’ll listen to your story, answer your questions, and explain your legal options. Remember, the sooner you get in touch with us, the better we can help you.
Alternatively, you can submit a form on our website to schedule a free consultation. This is a no-pressure, no-obligation opportunity for you to learn more about how we can assist you. Our goal is to help you get the compensation and justice you deserve. Don’t let a drunk driving accident disrupt your life more than it has to. Contact the Law Office of Frank J. Cassisi, P.C. today and let us help you take the first step towards recovery.
"*" indicates required fields