Sterling Heights Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

How We Can Help You Obtain Compensation After a Drunk Driving Accident in Sterling Heights

The legal team at Goodman Acker PC can assist you in seeking the compensation you need following a DUI accident in Sterling Heights. Here are some of the ways we can help:

Case Evaluation

When you reach out to us, we’ll start with a thorough evaluation of your case. This involves:

• Listening to your account of the accident
• Reviewing police reports and medical records
• Assessing the full extent of your injuries and losses
• Determining the potential liability of all parties involved
• Explaining your legal options in clear, understandable terms

Our goal is to provide you with a realistic understanding of your case’s strengths and potential challenges, empowering you to make informed decisions about how to proceed.

Sterling Heights Drunk Driving Accidents Guide

• Why Choose Our Firm to Handle Your Sterling Heights DUI Accident Claim
• Understanding Drunk Driving Accidents in Sterling Heights
• Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents
• Potential Damages Available to Victims
• The Legal Process of Recovering Damages from a Drunk Driver in Sterling Heights
• Frequently Asked Questions About Drunk Driving Accidents in Sterling Heights
• Contact a Sterling Heights Drunk Driving Accident Attorney

Evidence Collection and Preservation

Building a strong case requires solid evidence. Our team will:

• Gather and analyze police reports, breathalyzer results, and other official documents
• Collect witness statements and expert testimonies
• Secure video footage from traffic cameras or nearby businesses
• Preserve physical evidence from the accident scene
• Work with accident reconstruction specialists to build a clear picture of what happened

We understand that evidence can disappear quickly, so we act fast to ensure we don’t lose anything important to support your claim.

Negotiation with Insurance Companies

Dealing with insurance companies can be frustrating and intimidating. Let us handle these negotiations on your behalf. We will:

• Communicate directly with all involved insurance companies
• Prepare and submit a comprehensive demand package
• Advocate for your best interests during settlement discussions
• Protect you from tactics that could devalue your claim
• Ensure you don’t settle for less than what your case is truly worth

Our experience allows us to anticipate and counter the strategies insurance companies often use to minimize payouts.

Trial Representation

If the insurance company won’t negotiate a fair settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to court. Our litigation services include:

• Filing all necessary legal documents within required deadlines
• Developing a strong legal strategy tailored to your specific case
• Representing you during all pre-trial proceedings
• Presenting compelling arguments and evidence before a judge and jury
• Fighting tirelessly for the maximum compensation possible

Why Choose Our Firm to Handle Your Sterling Heights DUI Accident Claim

When you’re dealing with the aftermath of a drunk driving accident, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference. At Goodman Acker PC, we bring a unique combination of experience, dedication, and personalized attention to every case we handle. Here’s why we believe we’re the right choice for your Sterling Heights DUI accident claim:

Experience in Sterling Heights Drunk Driving Cases

Our firm has a long history of representing victims of drunk driving accidents in Sterling Heights and throughout Michigan. This local experience means:

• We’re familiar with the specific laws and regulations that apply to your case
• We have established relationships with local law enforcement, medical professionals, and court personnel
• We understand the unique challenges and opportunities present in Sterling Heights accident cases
• We can anticipate and prepare for the tactics commonly used by local defense attorneys and insurance companies

Track Record of Successful Settlements and Verdicts

Although past results don’t guarantee future outcomes, our history of success speaks to our commitment and capability:

• We’ve secured millions of dollars in compensation for drunk driving accident victims
• Our firm has a reputation for maximizing settlements and winning challenging cases at trial
• We’re known for our thorough case preparation and aggressive advocacy
• Our approach often leads to quicker resolutions and higher compensation amounts

Personalized Attention to Each Client

At Goodman Acker PC, we believe in providing individualized attention to every client:

• We maintain open lines of communication, keeping you updated on your case’s progress
• We take the time to understand your unique situation, concerns, and goals
• Our strategies are tailored to your specific needs and circumstances
• We’re always available to answer your questions and address your concerns

We’ve received dozens of compelling testimonials from our clients over the years that show our commitment to delivering stellar client service. Reach out to us today to learn of the difference we can make in your drunk driving accident case.

Understanding Drunk Driving Accidents in Sterling Heights

To effectively navigate your case, it’s important to understand the legal and practical aspects of drunk driving accidents in Sterling Heights and Michigan as a whole.

Legal Definition of Drunk Driving in Michigan

In Michigan, drunk driving is legally referred to as Operating While Intoxicated (OWI). A driver can be charged with OWI if:

• Their blood alcohol content (BAC) is 0.08% or higher
• They’re under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both
• They have any amount of a Schedule 1 drug in their system

For commercial drivers, the BAC limit is lower at 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, there’s a zero-tolerance policy with a 0.02% BAC limit.

Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving accidents often result in severe injuries due to the impaired driver’s reduced reaction time and decision-making abilities. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries, potentially leading to paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Internal organ damage
• Severe lacerations and burns
• Whiplash and other soft tissue injuries
• Psychological trauma, including PTSD

These injuries can have long-lasting effects on your health, ability to work, and overall quality of life.

Potential Damages Available to Victims

If a drunk driver injured you in Sterling Heights, you may be entitled to various types of compensation:

• Medical expenses (past and future)
• Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
• Property damage
• Rehabilitation costs
• Home modification expenses for permanent disabilities
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Loss of consortium (for spouses)

While rare in Michigan, punitive damages may be available in cases of extreme recklessness or malice.

Understanding these potential damages is crucial in ensuring you seek full and fair compensation for your losses.

Drunk Driving Accident Statistics in Michigan and Sterling Heights

Drunk driving accidents are sadly all too common in Sterling Heights and throughout Michigan. Consider these crash statistics from the Michigan Department of Transportation:

• There were approximately 9,300 alcohol-involved crashes in Michigan last year, resulting in 277 fatalities.
• Macomb County and the Sterling Heights area consistently rank among the top areas in Michigan for alcohol-related crashes.
• About 30% of all traffic fatalities in Michigan involve alcohol.
• The economic cost of drunk driving accidents in Michigan exceeds $1 billion annually.

These statistics highlight the ongoing problem of drunk driving in our community and the critical need for strong legal representation for victims.

The Legal Process of Recovering Damages from a Drunk Driver in Sterling Heights

The legal process of recovering damages from a drunk driver in Sterling Heights, Michigan typically involves these key steps:

1. File a police report and seek medical attention immediately after the accident.
2. Contact your insurance company to report the incident.
3. Gather evidence, including police reports, medical records, and witness statements.
4. Consider hiring a personal injury attorney experienced in drunk driving cases.
5. File a claim against the drunk driver’s insurance company.
6. If necessary, file a lawsuit within Michigan’s statute of limitations.
7. Negotiate a settlement or proceed to trial if an agreement can’t be reached.
8. If successful, recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potentially punitive damages.

Remember that Michigan follows a modified comparative negligence rule, which may affect your compensation if you’re found partially at fault for the accident. Our attorneys will fight back if the insurance company tries to blame you for the crash and work to hold the at-fault driver fully accountable.

Frequently Asked Questions About Drunk Driving Accidents in Sterling Heights

Contact a Sterling Heights Drunk Driving Accident Attorney

Don’t suffer any longer because of a drunk driver’s disgraceful actions. Take legal action today to hold the drunk driver accountable and pursue the compensation and justice you deserve.

The Sterling Heights personal injury lawyers at Goodman Acker PC are here for you and your family during this difficult and uncertain time. Call us now at (586) 261-8457 for a free consultation or Contact us online. We can take the burden of dealing with the insurance companies and the legal complexities involved. You can rest easier knowing a dedicated legal advocate is looking out for your best interests.

Goodman Acker P.C. – Sterling Heights

113854 Lakeside Cir suite 240
Sterling Heights, MI 48313

Phone: (586) 261-8457

LEGALLY REVIEWED BY BARRY J. GOODMAN

Barry J. Goodman has devoted his professional life to keeping courthouse doors open for victims seeking justice. Always a tireless advocate for his own clients, Goodman sees his responsibility as a Detroit personal injury attorney in a broader sense as well. [ Attorney Bio ]