Compensation in a Denver drunk driving accident generally includes a combination of economic and non-economic damages to cover the losses you suffered. Punitive damages may also be recovered in cases where the drunk driver was grossly negligent. Guidance from a Denver car accident lawyer from The Law Office of Eric Faddis can help you pursue and recover full compensation.
The Purpose of Compensation in a Drunk Driving Accident Case
Recovering compensation after a drunk driving accident in Denver ensures that you don’t have to financially pay for the consequences of the drunk driver’s recklessness. Pursuing a case against them ensures that they are held accountable and you receive the financial resources you need to recover after an accident. Compensation can include a few different types of losses, and a lawyer can provide insight into your options.
Economic Damages Are the Primary Form of Recovery After an Accident
Economic damages in a settlement help you recover the financial expenses you have accumulated because of the drunk driver. The cost of your medical care, rehabilitation, tests, surgeries, and more make up the majority of this portion of your settlement. When your injuries keep you out of work and cause you to lose income, you can also pursue compensation for the value of your lost income. Additionally, vehicle repair costs can be recovered, as can funeral and burial expenses for fatal crashes.
Non-Economic Damages are Designed to Offset Suffering
A drunk driving accident in Denver can be deeply traumatic and have lingering effects long after the accident. While these losses do not have an inherent monetary value, a car accident settlement can use formulas to provide you with compensation to offset these losses. Non-economic damages allow you to recover compensation for emotional distress, pain and suffering, loss of enjoyment and/or consortium, and symptoms of anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder, and depression.
Punitive Damages May Apply Under Certain Conditions
Punitive damages are generally not included in most car accident claims because their purpose is to penalize offenders who exhibit malice or gross negligence. However, this can apply in some drunk driving accidents and result in greater losses to the victim. In these cases, evidence must clearly and convincingly show this level of behavior as part of your request for punitive damages. This compensation is paid by the offender and provides compensation beyond economic and non-economic damages.
Crucial Steps for Protecting Your Compensation After a Denver Drunk Driving Accident
To ensure that you recover all the damages you are entitled to, it is important to know what to do after a drunk driving accident to protect the outcome of your case. This includes getting medical attention, documenting your losses, and working with a lawyer to access toxicology test results. You must also file a claim during the three-year statute of limitations (Colorado Revised Statutes 13-80-101(1)(n)(I)). You should also schedule a free case consultation and hire a lawyer to ensure you receive a fair settlement.