Gulfport DUI Accident Attorneys

DUI Laws in Mississippi

In Mississippi, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08% or higher. However, drivers with lower BACs can still be considered "under the influence" of alcohol and can still be charged with DUI.

For crashes that occur in and around Gulfport, DUI charges are typically handled through courts in Harrison County, but the related civil injury claim follows separate rules and deadlines. As we review your case, we consider how the criminal proceedings, field sobriety tests, and breath or blood test results might affect your ability to recover damages in a civil claim. A drunk driving accident lawyer in Gulfport can coordinate with law enforcement and prosecutors when appropriate, while still focusing on building the strongest possible personal injury claim on your behalf.

Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents

Common injuries may include the following:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): The impact of a drunk driving collision can cause severe head trauma, leading to traumatic brain injuries. TBIs often result in cognitive impairment, memory loss, mood changes, and other long-term neurological issues that require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Harm to the spinal cord can lead to partial or full paralysis, significantly impacting the victim's quality of life. These injuries often necessitate lifelong medical care, adaptive equipment, and modifications to living spaces.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: The force of a crash can cause multiple fractures and broken bones, necessitating surgeries, physical therapy, and extended recovery periods.
• Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, like organ damage and internal bleeding, are not always immediately noticeable but can be life-threatening.
• Whiplash and Neck Injuries: Even seemingly minor collisions can cause whiplash, resulting in neck pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
• Psychological Trauma: The emotional effect of a drunk driving accident can be profound, leading to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. Psychological counseling and support are often necessary for victims to cope with these challenges.

What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident

Taking the right steps directly following the incident can help protect your legal rights and enhance your ability to secure compensation.

• Ensure Safety and Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priority. Move to a safe location if possible and call emergency services. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it is crucial to undergo a thorough medical examination, as some injuries may not be instantly apparent.
• Contact Law Enforcement: Report the accident to the police. Law enforcement officers will document the scene, gather evidence, and potentially conduct sobriety tests on the drunk driver. Obtain a copy of the police report for your records.
• Gather Evidence: If you are able, collect evidence at the scene. Take pictures of the vehicles, the accident location, and any visible injuries. Gather all contact information from witnesses, as their statements may be valuable for your case.
• Exchange All Information: Swap contact and insurance information with the other driver. Make sure to avoid discussing fault or making statements that could be used against you later.
• Let Your Insurance Company Know: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the necessary details, but refrain from making any statements about fault until you have consulted with an attorney.

What Damages Are Available in a Drunk Driving Accident?

The costs of a drunk driving accident can be devastating. In addition to the costs of medical treatment, you may have to deal with other damages. The expenses can add up quickly, and you may not be able to afford them on your own. 

The following are some of the costs associated with a drunk driving accident:

When you hire an attorney from Gulf South Law Firm to represent you, you will not have to worry about paying any legal fees. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means that we only get paid if we win. If we do not win, you will not owe us anything.

In many Gulfport drunk driving cases, we also look at future costs that are not obvious in the first few weeks after the crash, such as reduced earning capacity, ongoing therapy, or the need for long-term assistance with daily activities. Families who have lost a loved one may have claims for funeral expenses and the loss of the person's support and companionship, which can be pursued through a wrongful death action in Mississippi courts. By working closely with your doctors and other professionals, a drunk driving accident attorney from our firm can help document these losses so that the insurance company and, if necessary, a jury can clearly understand the full impact on your life.

How Gulf South Law Firm Advocates for DUI Victims

• Legal Knowledge: Attorneys have a deep understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding drunk driving accidents. They can navigate the legal complexities of your case, ensuring that you have a strong legal strategy.
• Investigation: Attorneys can conduct a thorough investigation into the accident. This includes gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, surveillance footage, and legal opinions to establish liability and build a compelling case.
• Determining Liability: Identifying all liable parties is essential. In addition to the drunk driver, other parties such as bars, restaurants, or hosts who overserved alcohol may share liability. Attorneys can assess the circumstances to identify all responsible parties.
• Negotiation: Attorneys can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to secure fair compensation. They have the negotiation skills to maximize your settlement, ensuring that you receive compensation for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
• Lawsuit Filing: If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, attorneys can file a personal injury lawsuit on your behalf. They will handle all legal procedures, paperwork, and court appearances.
• Evidence Preservation: Attorneys can ensure that crucial evidence is preserved, preventing it from being destroyed or lost, which is particularly important in cases of drunk driving accidents.
• Representation in Court: If your case goes to trial, attorneys will represent you in court, presenting your case to the judge and jury, cross-examining witnesses, and arguing on your behalf.
• Understanding Legal Deadlines: Attorneys are well-versed in legal deadlines and statutes of limitations. They will ensure that your case is filed within the required time frame to avoid losing your right to seek compensation.
• Emotional Support: Dealing with the aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be emotionally challenging. Attorneys can provide support and guidance throughout the legal process, helping you understand your rights and options.
• Advocating for Maximum Compensation: Attorneys are committed to securing the best possible outcome for your case. They will work to ensure you receive compensation that reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses.
• Closure: Attorneys can help you achieve closure by holding the responsible parties accountable for their actions and ensuring justice is served.

In cases involving drunk driving accidents, the stakes are high, and the legal process can be complex. Having an experienced attorney by your side can make a significant difference in your ability to recover compensation for your injuries and losses and to seek justice for the harm caused by the drunk driver.

Frequently Asked Questions

Call (228) 231-3989 for a free consultation with our Gulfport drunk driving accident attorney.