Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys

An Unmatched Legal Team Fighting for Drunk Driving Accident Victims in the Southwest

A driver under the influence of alcohol experiences impaired judgment, reduced motor skills, and delayed reaction times, which significantly increase the likelihood of catastrophic accidents. These collisions often result in devastating injuries, expensive medical treatments, and in worst-case scenarios, loss of life.

At Buckingham & Vega Law Firm, we understand the gravity of these situations and are committed to aggressively advocating for victims of drunk driving accidents in Albuquerque, Las Cruces, Farmington, and many other areas. We have a proven track record of helping individuals successfully recover compensation through personal injury claims, with record-setting verdicts and countless satisfied clients. Our drunk driving accident lawyers are prepared to fully leverage our decades of experience, extensive knowledge, and litigation prowess in our fight to secure the justice you deserve.

If you have been injured because of the actions of an intoxicated driver, do not wait to schedule a free initial consultation by calling (505) 388-0066 or contacting us online. If we take your case, you will owe no legal fees unless we win.

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Our Results Make a Difference

Explore How We Have Helped Our Clients

$14 Million Dram Shop Liability
Our team obtained a $14 million dram shop verdict on behalf of a client who was injured due to negligence.

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How a Criminal Drunk Driving Case Can Affect Your Personal Injury Claim

Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal in all 50 states. When a driver causes an accident while intoxicated, they will likely be arrested by law enforcement and charged with a crime. You may be wondering how criminal charges affect your right to seek compensation through a personal injury claim.

It is important to understand that a personal injury lawsuit is separate from criminal proceedings. The two cases occur in different courts, use different standards of proof, and result in different types of penalties. A guilty verdict in a criminal trial does not automatically guarantee a successful outcome in a personal injury lawsuit. Each case is unique and depends heavily on the specific facts and evidence presented.

In a criminal trial, the prosecution must prove the driver is guilty of DUI beyond a reasonable doubt, a very high burden of proof. Numerous factors can prevent the prosecution from securing a conviction, even if the driver was obviously intoxicated. The defendant may even negotiate a plea deal, or they may not be charged at all. However, a lack of criminal charges or conviction does not mean you cannot pursue and win a personal injury case.

In a personal injury lawsuit – which is a civil case – you need to prove the drunk driver was more likely than not responsible for your injuries because of their negligence. Drunk driving tends to lead to negligent actions that can cause accidents, such as failing to follow traffic laws. Because the burden of proof is lower than that of criminal proceedings, it is possible to secure a favorable outcome even if the defendant is acquitted.

At Buckingham & Vega Law Firm, we do not shy away from challenging cases. Even if the intoxicated driver who injured you managed to avoid a conviction, our drunk driving accident attorneys are prepared to fight for you.

How Dram Shop Liability Can Impact Your Drunk Driving Personal Injury Claim

Dram shop laws significantly expand the scope of potential liability in drunk driving accident cases, allowing victims to seek compensation from establishments that served alcohol to the intoxicated driver. These laws, which vary by state, are based on the reality that bars, restaurants, and other alcohol-serving establishments have a responsibility not to serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals or minors. If they fail in this duty, they can be held liable for the consequences.

For instance, consider a scenario where a bar continues to serve drinks to a patron who is visibly intoxicated. If this person then decides to drive and causes an accident resulting in injury or property damage, the bar may potentially be held responsible under the applicable state’s dram shop laws. This can provide an additional avenue for victims seeking compensation for their injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. In such cases, the establishment may be required to pay damages along with or instead of the drunk driver.

However, successfully pursuing a claim under dram shop laws requires demonstrating a direct link between the establishment's actions and the accident. This presents its own set of challenges, as victims must prove that the establishment served alcohol to someone who was clearly intoxicated and that the decision to do so directly contributed to the accident and resulting injuries.

Our drunk driving accident lawyers have the experience, resources, and tenacity to meet these challenges head-on. Our team is adept at investigating these cases, gathering evidence to substantiate your claim, and arguing your case convincingly. We are committed to exploring every legal avenue available to ensure you receive the maximum compensation you deserve.

Why You Should Hire an Attorney to Help with Your Drunk Driving Accident Case

Pursuing a personal injury claim for a drunk driving accident is often laden with challenges that necessitate professional legal guidance. One of the first hurdles involves collecting and preserving evidence. This can include physical evidence from the accident scene, medical records demonstrating the extent of injuries, and police reports indicating the driver's intoxication level. Gathering this evidence quickly and effectively is crucial, as it forms the backbone of your claim. Delays or mishandling could lead to a loss of evidence, consequently weakening your case. An attorney can help secure and preserve the evidence needed to form a strong claim.

Another challenge is establishing the drunk driver's liability. While their intoxication suggests negligence, you must still convincingly demonstrate that their impaired driving directly caused the accident and your subsequent injuries. This often requires expert testimony, such as from accident reconstruction specialists, to solidify your claim.

A substantial roadblock on the journey to getting fair compensation can be the drunk driver's insurance company. Insurance companies typically employ aggressive tactics to dispute claims or reduce settlement amounts. They might downplay the severity of your injuries, suggest contributory negligence, or even question the link between the accident and your injuries. Without effective legal representation, you could unintentionally accept an undervalued settlement or see your claim denied outright.

Finally, understanding and applying the law can be a daunting task for individuals without legal training. Laws vary considerably from state to state, particularly ones involving punitive damages and dram shop liability. Navigating these nuances to obtain the benefits you are entitled to can be an uphill battle for the uninitiated.

Our attorneys have what it takes to help you overcome each of these obstacles. We strategically gather and preserve evidence, establish liability, adeptly handle insurance companies, and apply our deep understanding of the law to your advantage. With us by your side, you can be assured that your personal injury claim is in capable hands.

Let us put our experience with drunk driving cases to work for you. Call (505) 388-0066 or contact us online today!

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