Birmingham
Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

The aftermath of a Birmingham drunk driving collision leaves many victims wondering where to turn. When someone’s reckless choice to drive under the influence shatters lives, TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers connects victims with attorneys who fight relentlessly for the compensation they deserve.  

Our network of qualified personal injury attorneys across Alabama understands the devastation these accidents cause and works tirelessly to hold drunk drivers accountable. 

Contact us today for a no-cost case evaluation and let us help you find a drunk driving accident attorney near you to handle your claim and fight for maximum compensation.

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Your Guide to Drunk Driving in Birmingham

James Helm, Personal Injury Lawyer

Understanding Drunk Driving in Alabama

Alabama law sets strict blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits for DUI:
  • 0.08% for standard drivers
  • 0.04% for commercial drivers
  • 0.02% for drivers under 21 

Criminal vs. Civil Cases 

While the state pursues criminal charges against drunk drivers, victims maintain the right to seek compensation through civil lawsuits. These separate legal processes allow victims to recover damages regardless of the criminal case outcome. 

Alabama Dram Shop Laws 

Bars, restaurants, and other establishments that serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated patrons may share liability for resulting accidents. These “dram shop” laws provide additional avenues for compensation when businesses put profits above public safety. 

Drunk Driving Statistics 

Recent data from the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) shows: 
  • Drunk drivers caused 3,895 crashes in 2022. Of those, 97 were fatal crashes.
  • Around 30% of Alabama traffic fatalities involve alcohol
  • Holiday periods see significant spikes in drunk driving incidents 
Birmingham reports hundreds of DUI arrests each year, and many of those arrest occur following a crash. These numbers underscore the prevalence of drunk driving in Alabama and the need for experienced legal representation when an impaired driver hurts or kills someone. 

Common Injuries and Losses from Drunk Driving Accidents

Impaired drivers can cause accidents that result in serious injuries, such as: 

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord damage
  • Broken bones
  • Internal organ damage
  • Burns and lacerations
  • Permanent disabilities 

Emotional Trauma 

The aftermath of a DUI crash can leave victims reeling emotionally and psychologically, experiencing hardships like: 

  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Anxiety and depression
  • Sleep disturbances
  • Fear of driving
  • Relationship strain

Fatalities 

Drunk driving deaths devastate families, leaving them to cope with: 

  • Loss of companionship
  • Lost financial support
  • Funeral expenses
  • Grief counseling needs
  • Estate administration 

Long-term Impacts 

After suffering injuries or losses in a DUI crash, victims must deal with: 

  • Ongoing medical treatments
  • Rehabilitation requirements
  • Career disruptions
  • Modified living arrangements
  • Changes in daily activities 
Drunk Driving DUI Lawyer

How a Birmingham Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Can Help

The attorneys in TopDog Law’s network offer no-cost case evaluations to discuss: 

  • Your legal rights
  • Available compensation
  • Evidence needed
  • Next steps 

The skilled attorneys we work with gather compelling evidence through: 

  • Accident reconstruction analysis
  • Police report examination
  • Witness statement collection
  • BAC test result review
  • Surveillance footage acquisition
  • Cell phone records review 

Your attorney will meticulously track all losses, including: 

  • Medical records and bills
  • Income statements
  • Property damage estimates
  • Expert opinions
  • Future care projections 

When insurance companies try to minimize payouts, your attorney will: 

  • Present strong evidence
  • Counter lowball offers
  • Expose delay tactics
  • Push for fair compensation
  • Protect your rights 

Court Representation  

If insurers refuse reasonable settlements, you can count on your attorney to: 

  • File a lawsuit
  • Present compelling cases at trial
  • Cross-examine witnesses
  • Argue before judges and juries
  • Appeal unfavorable rulings

Types of Compensation Available

A Birmingham drunk driving attorney can help you recover compensation that could include: 

Medical Expenses 

  • Emergency care costs
  • Hospital stays
  • Surgeries
  • Medications
  • Physical therapy
  • Mental health treatment
  • Future medical needs 

Lost Income 

  • Missed work wages
  • Lost bonuses and benefits
  • Reduced future earnings
  • Job retraining costs
  • Business opportunity losses 

Property Damage 

  • Vehicle repair/replacement
  • Personal items destroyed
  • Rental car expenses
  • Towing fees
  • Storage costs 

Pain and Suffering 

  • Physical pain
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of enjoyment
  • Psychological impacts
  • Relationship changes 

Punitive Damages 

Additionally, Alabama courts may award additional damages to: 

  • Punish drunk drivers
  • Deter similar conduct
  • Send strong messages
Personal Injury Lawyer

Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident

If you’re still at the accident scene and are physically able, be sure to: 

  1. Call 911
  2. Seek medical care
  3. Document the scene
    • Take photos
    • Get witness contacts
    • Note road conditions
  4. Avoid discussing fault 

In the days and weeks that follow the accident, you want to strengthen your case for compensation by: 

  1. Following medical advice and continuing your treatment plan
  2. Reporting the accident to insurance companies, including your own
  3. Saving all receipts for out-of-pocket expenses related to the accident and your injuries
  4. Documenting your symptoms and the effect your injuries have had on your life
  5. Contacting an attorney to protect your rights and interests

Connect with an Experienced Birmingham DUI Accident Lawyer

James Helm with Phone and Cash Bag

TopDog Law Personal Injury Lawyers

Birmingham Office

950 22nd Street N. Suite 600
Birmingham AL 35203

Birmingham DUI Accident FAQs

Alabama's statute of limitations allows two years from the accident date to file personal injury claims. Missing this deadline typically bars recovery.  

Your attorney can explore multiple options: 

  • Your uninsured motorist coverage
  • Dram shop liability
  • Personal assets of the driver
  • Other responsible parties

No. Civil claims proceed independently of criminal cases and require different standards of proof. However, a conviction of DUI can strengthen your case since your attorney can use it to prove negligence.

TopDog Law's network attorneys work on contingency fees. You pay nothing unless they obtain compensation for you.

Each case differs, but most resolve within a matter of months. Complex cases or those requiring trial may take longer. Your attorney will work to resolve your claim expeditiously while still ensuring you recover the full compensation you need.

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