How DUI Accidents Differ From Other Car Accident Claims
A crash caused by a drunk driver is not a simple “accident.” You face medical bills, lost income, and sleepless nights. You may also feel anger that someone chose to drink and drive. That choice changes everything about your claim. Insurance companies often treat DUI crashes differently from other wrecks. So do police, prosecutors, and judges. You must understand how these cases move through both the criminal court and the civil claim process. Then you can protect your rights, your health, and your family. A Columbia car accident attorney can explain how fault is proven, what evidence matters most, and when to push for a trial. This blog gives you clear steps so you do not feel powerless. You will see how DUI cases affect timelines, settlement value, and your role in the process.
Why DUI Crashes Are Treated Differently
DUI crashes involve a crime. That single fact sets them apart from most other wrecks. A drunk driver faces criminal charges for driving under the influence. You may bring a civil claim for your injuries at the same time.
This overlap creates three key differences.
- You deal with police reports and court records from the criminal case.
- You may receive contact from prosecutors as a victim.
- You often see stronger evidence of fault through test results and body camera footage.
The criminal case focuses on punishment and public safety. Your claim focuses on money for your losses and support for your recovery. Both paths matter.
How Fault Is Proven In A DUI Crash
In a regular crash, fault often turns on witness stories and traffic rules. In a DUI case, proof of impairment can carry heavy weight.
Evidence may include:
- Breath or blood test results that show blood alcohol content.
- Officer observations of slurred speech or unsteady walking.
- Field sobriety test results.
- Video from body cameras or patrol cars.
- Bar or restaurant receipts that show recent drinking.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration explains how alcohol weakens judgment and reaction time even at low levels. You can read more at https://www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving. This science supports your claim that the drunk driver created extreme risk.
Key Differences Between DUI And Other Car Claims
The table below compares common issues in a DUI crash claim and a standard car crash claim.
| Issue | DUI Accident Claim | Other Car Accident Claim |
|---|---|---|
| Fault | Often backed by test results and criminal charges | Often based on witness stories and traffic rules |
| Type of Case | Civil claim plus related criminal case | Usually civil claim only |
| Available Evidence | Police video, sobriety tests, lab reports | Crash report, photos, witness statements |
| Insurance Response | May fight hard on value but rarely denies fault | May dispute both fault and value |
| Possible Damages | Medical costs, lost income, pain, and sometimes extra punishment money | Medical costs, lost income, pain |
| Emotional Impact | Often includes anger and a sense of betrayal | Often focused on fear and shock |
| Timeline | Can depend on the progress of the criminal case | Usually follows a standard insurance schedule |
How The Criminal Case Affects Your Civil Claim
You are not a prosecutor. You do not control the criminal case. Still, the outcome can influence your claim.
A guilty plea or conviction for DUI can support your proof of fault. It shows the driver broke the law. That can pressure the insurance company to settle.
However, the criminal case may slow your civil claim. Key witnesses may need to testify first in criminal court. Some records may stay sealed until the criminal judge allows release. You may wait to give a full statement so you do not affect the prosecution.
You have the right to ask questions. Victim advocates in many courts can explain hearing dates and your role. The Office for Victims of Crime provides helpful information on victims’ rights at https://ovc.ojp.gov/.
Damages In A DUI Accident Claim
A DUI crash may cause the same types of injuries as any other wreck. You may suffer broken bones, neck pain, brain injury, or grief after a death. What changes is how the law views the drunk driver’s choice.
You may seek money for:
- Emergency care, surgery, and follow-up treatment.
- Physical therapy and medical devices.
- Lost wages and loss of future earning power.
- Pain and changes to your daily life.
- Support for anxiety, sadness, or trauma.
Courts sometimes allow extra money meant to punish extreme conduct. Drunk driving often falls into that group. This can raise the value of your claim. It can also lead to tougher fights with the insurance company.
How To Protect Yourself And Your Family
After a DUI crash, you may feel pulled in many directions. You deal with doctors, work, school, and court dates. A simple plan can help you protect your claim and your peace of mind.
Take three basic steps.
- Get medical care. Tell each doctor that a drunk driver caused the crash.
- Save records. Keep photos, bills, letters, and notes about pain or missed events.
- Be careful with insurance calls. Give only basic facts until you understand your rights.
Then ask questions about your options. A trusted legal guide can explain how the criminal case and the civil claim fit together. You do not need to face both systems alone.
Final Thoughts
A DUI crash is different from a regular wreck because someone chose to break the law and risk their life and others. That choice changes how police respond, how courts act, and how insurance companies treat your claim. When you understand these differences, you take back some control. You can push for fair money, steady medical care, and a measure of justice for you and your family.
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