Drunk Driving Car Accidents in Colorado Springs
Drunk driving is a significant cause of vehicle accidents leading to life-threatening and fatal injuries nationwide. However, while proving that a motorist was driving under the influence during a wreck can help victims recover financial settlements, they must still prove that the defendant’s actions were a primary cause of the crash.
When you sustain damages and losses in an accident caused by someone under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you have the right to seek legal action and collect financial damages with the help of a skilled motor vehicle crash attorney. A hard-working lawyer experienced with drunk driving car accidents in Colorado Springs could help build a solid case, advocate on your behalf, and help secure a settlement to cover your losses.
What is Considered Drunk Driving in Colorado Springs?
Sadly, alcohol can affect a driver’s motor control, slow their reaction time, and decrease their vision and hearing ability. When intoxicated driving car crashes occur, and the at-fault party is guilty of one of the following, the plaintiff can use the arrest and conviction details to prove liability in a civil lawsuit. The following individuals can be found guilty of drunk driving:
- A driver under 21 with a blood alcohol content BAC of 0.02 percent or more
- A driver operating a vehicle that requires a commercial driver’s license with a BAC of 0.04 percent or more
- A driver who causes an accident with a BAC of 0.05 but less than 0.08 percent
- A driver operating a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.08 percent or more
A motorist with a BAC of .17 percent or more could face additional drunk driving charges, including persistent drunk driving. Even drivers under the legal drinking limit are at higher risk of causing accidents than sober drivers. A diligent local attorney could investigate an incident of drunk driving, collect relevant evidence, and prove another driver’s liability in civil court.
Reckless Driving Actions Leading to Vehicular Assault
When a driver guilty of drunk driving causes a car wreck, the victim can collect information from the arrest and conviction to prove the driver failed to provide their legal duty of care. Under the Colorado Revised Statutes § 18-3-205, when an individual drives a vehicle recklessly and causes an accident leading to someone suffering bodily harm, they are guilty of vehicular assault. However, the court must consider the negligent driver’s blood-alcohol tests when determining liability.
Damages in Drunk Driving Crashes
Damages in drunk driving crashes can vary significantly. However, the court will consider the drunk driver’s actions and the extent of the victim’s injuries and losses resulting from the vehicle collision in Colorado Springs. Compensation amounts can be substantial, and the court may award a settlement to cover damages, like medical care, lost pay, permanent disability, pain and suffering, and emotional anguish.
Call an Experienced Attorney in Colorado Springs to Learn More About Drunk Driving Accidents
When you or a loved one sustains harm because of a drunk driver, you have the right to collect compensation. Moreover, civil laws protect your rights and allow you to hold the reckless driver accountable.
A lawyer skilled with drunk driving car accidents in Colorado Springs could help you hold the negligent party accountable and collect the award amount you deserve. Call soon to schedule a consultation and let our legal team members begin working on your case.
