Drunk Driving Accidents Are Unacceptable. Those Responsible Must Pay.
All motor vehicle accidents are unfortunate. But there is a category of accident that goes beyond unfortunate — unacceptable. I am referring to accidents caused by drunk drivers.
Such accidents are far from unusual. About a third of all serious accidents involve alcohol. Drinking causes drivers to become reckless even as they become more incompetent at the wheel.
You can see the consequences in daily headlines:
- Family Of Four Wiped Out In Crash
- Nine Year Old On Bicycle Hit By Drunk Driver
- Intoxicated Trucker Crashes Into Home
The Challenge Of Obtaining Punitive Damages
The law allows victims of drunk drivers and surviving family members extra leeway in seeking damages from drunk driving accidents. In addition to compensation for lost pay, medical expenses, and pain and suffering, plaintiffs may request punitive damages, to send a message that this behavior is unacceptable to the community.
These damages can double or even triple the total compensation. But there’s a hitch. Mississippi courts make getting to the punitive phase of a trial difficult. You can guess who benefits from this ruling: Insurance companies.
I am always on the lookout for situations where punitive damages would be appropriate, and I do what needs to be done to have my clients receive them.
But the laws make it hard even for me to make this powerful statement: MAKE DRUNK DRIVERS PAY A PRICE.
This is a matter of great importance to me as a personal injury attorney. Mississippians should have the same rights of recovery as citizens of nearby states. And I will fight for you to enjoy these rights as you hold the person who injured you accountable.
Hit By A Drunk Driver? You Have Legal Recourse.
Talk to me. I am available 24/7 to hear about your accident and your injury. Like all personal injury lawyers, I don’t charge fees unless I put a win in your column. Unlike many other personal injury lawyers, I will never take more of a settlement or award than my clients put in their pockets regardless of my rights under the fee agreement.
Call B. Geoffrey Harrison PA at 228-435-4878
Call me at my Biloxi office at 228-435-4878, or email me a brief description of what happened. I want the same justice you want. Let’s work together to get you rightfully compensated. We represent clients from all of Mississippi and Louisiana.
