Driving under the influence (DWI) has significant effects on a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely in South Carolina. Impaired drivers often end up causing wrecks due to slowed reflexes or poor judgment. Drunk driving wrecks may leave you dealing with injuries, vehicle repair costs, and other losses.
Fortunately, you have the option to seek compensation for your losses. You can get help building your legal claim today from a Tryon DWI accident lawyer with Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC.
Learn About Severe DWI Wrecks in South Carolina
Under the law in South Carolina, drivers cannot legally operate a vehicle while impaired by alcohol. For most drivers, this means they should not drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) over 0.08%. However, commercial drivers and drivers under 21 must maintain a lower BAC level.
The state set these regulations in order to protect motorists and pedestrians. Unfortunately, many motorists disregard DWI laws and get behind the wheel after having a few drinks. These drivers often end up causing wrecks.
According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS), there were over 5,000 non-fatal DWI collisions in the year 2019. During the same period of time, 285 people lost their lives in drunk driving wrecks. This number represents 28% of all the people lost in car wrecks in South Carolina in 2019.
Drinking Increases the Odds of a Collision in Tryon
Some drivers believe that they can safely operate a vehicle after drinking alcohol or even using drugs. However, organizations like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), have done extensive studies regarding the effects of alcohol on drivers.
According to the NHTSA, even one drink of alcohol can result in loss of judgment. By the time drivers reach the legal limit (0.08% BAC), they often demonstrate:
- Poor muscle coordination
- Slowed reaction time
- Issues with their vision and hearing
- Problems detecting danger
- Limited self-control and judgment
- Impaired reasoning and memory
Each of these factors makes operating a car more dangerous. Together, they greatly increase the odds of an individual causing a car wreck.
We Help You Build a DWI Wreck Claim in Tryon
You do not have to try to handle a DWI wreck on your own. You can begin working with a Tryon DWI accident attorney immediately after your wreck. Our team understands all the legal codes surrounding DWI cases and we apply our experience when handling your claim.
You can count on us to step in and request a copy of the police report. Police officers often perform field DWI tests after collisions. They may use a breath, blood, or urine test to measure the BAC of the driver who struck you.
Gathering Evidence
Assessing the results of the test may help us establish that the other driver abused alcohol before driving. However, driving under the influence does not mean a driver is automatically at fault for the collision. We take steps to show the driver directly caused the wreck, perhaps by:
- Cutting in front of you in traffic
- Driving too fast for conditions
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Driving against the flow of traffic
- Making a left turn into traffic
We focus on using information from eyewitnesses, police reports, and your own statement when building your claim.
What Damages Can You Expect from a Tryon Drunk Driving Wreck?
Any car wreck in Tryon may leave you facing high expenses. Depending upon the facts of your case, a lawyer can step in to help you secure damages to cover your losses. We focus on helping our clients with their:
Economic Losses
Economic losses cover things like your medical expenses and wages lost during your recovery from a DWI wreck. The costs to repair your vehicle (or replace a totaled vehicle) also count as economic losses in South Carolina.
Non-Economic Losses
Many drivers receive non-economic losses after a DWI wreck in Tryon. These losses do not have a set dollar value, because they cover things like your pain and suffering. We can help you calculate an estimated value for your non-economic losses.
Punitive Losses
Sometimes, drivers receive punitive damages after a DWI wreck. Generally, you only receive this form of compensation if your case goes to trial. Punitive damages aim to punish the driver who caused your wreck for their dangerous actions.
How Much does It Cost to Hire a DWI Wreck Lawyer?
DWI wreck lawyers often charge different rates for their services. The price you pay may depend upon the nature of your wreck and the lawyer’s experience.
Some drivers consider trying to handle a DWI claim on their own in order to save money. However, getting professional help from a lawyer may allow you to focus on your recovery.
Lawyers provide numerous services after DWI wrecks. They handle communication with insurance agents, review any settlement offers you receive, and help track the losses associated with your collision. They also answer your legal questions and help you navigate the court system in Tryon.
Speak with a Member of Our Team After a Tryon DWI Wreck
You can take charge of your future after a wreck by speaking with a Tryon DWI accident lawyer. Our team at Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC can help you with your claim.