Drunk driving accidents are one of the most devastating kinds of crashes because they’re entirely preventable. If no one got behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol, there would be 28 fewer traffic fatalities across the country every single day.
There would also be significantly fewer injured parties. Victims who are fortunate enough to survive such collisions tend to get seriously hurt in the process.
Fortunately, they’re usually entitled to compensation. As long as they can put together a compelling case that includes convincing evidence of liability, drunk driving accident victims can seek funds for the following:
Under South Carolina tort law, virtually all medical expenses incurred while treating the associated injuries are recoverable. Examples include ambulance fees, hospital bills, and doctor’s office co-pays. The cost of any essential medical devices, prescription medication, or additional services like physical therapy are also recoverable.
Claimants who are unable to work because of their injuries can seek compensation for the wages they lose as a result. Those with injuries so severe that they’re unable to return to work at all can also include lost earning capacity in their damages claim. This encompasses the income and benefits they would have earned had they remained in the workforce until a reasonable retirement age.
Drunk driving accident victims often need help with essential tasks like meal preparation and housekeeping. As long as these services are deemed reasonable and necessary, their cost is considered a recoverable loss.
In addition to the economic damages mentioned above, South Carolina recognizes non-economic damages. While intangible, these losses can be every bit as devastating as the monetary losses the victim incurs. Examples include:
While victims don’t actually incur loss of consortium, this damage is worth mentioning because it can be significant. Loss of consortium refers to the loss of affection, companionship, and society that individuals endure when their husband or wife gets seriously hurt.
Put another way, if some aspects of your marital relationship suffered because of the drunk driving accident, your spouse may also have grounds for a tort claim. Thankfully, the same law firm that assists you should be able to guide their claim through the proceedings, as well.
If you were struck by a drunk driver and you don’t know where to turn, you can count on the compassionate team at Hodge & Langley Law Firm. Our attorneys have more than 50 years of combined experience in the legal field, and we’ll draw upon it to help you seek every dollar you deserve. To schedule a free initial consultation with a drunk driving accident lawyer in South Carolina, call 864-585-3873 or fill out the Contact Form on our website.
Submission of information in this contact form does not establish an attorney-client relationship. In order to establish such a relationship with our firm we require a direct meeting with the attorney.
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