When someone is injured in a drunk driving accident, the first instinct may be to accept the insurance company’s initial offer just to move forward and put the traumatic event behind them. This choice is understandable. It can be overwhelming, especially if you have large medical bills and are unable to work. This can cause a lot of stress. However, quick settlements often fail to account for the full picture—especially when long-term injuries and future damages are involved.

In drunk driving cases, the stakes are even higher. These accidents often involve high-speed impacts and severe injuries, and the driver’s intoxication can significantly affect the course of a personal injury claim. While it might seem like a good idea to settle early, doing so can lead to financial hardship down the line if all current and future losses are not fully evaluated.

This article will explain why it’s in your best interest to take a measured approach to settlement discussions, particularly in DUI-related personal injury cases. We go over how long-term damages are calculated, the impact of state laws, and why a more cautious strategy can lead to better outcomes.

Understanding the Full Scope of Damages

One of the biggest mistakes someone who has been injured will make is underestimating just how much of an impact the injuries may have on them, long-term. It’s not just about the emergency room bill or a few physical therapy sessions. Serious injuries can lead to:

• Chronic pain
• Loss of mobility or function
• Emotional and psychological trauma
• Ongoing medical treatments
• Lost earning potential or permanent disability

A quick settlement offer will typically only account for what is immediately known. If you accept an early offer and later discover that you need surgery, specialized care, or cannot return to your previous job, you cannot go back and ask for more compensation. Once a release is signed, the case is considered closed.

The Role of Insurance Companies

Insurance companies are businesses. Their goal is to limit payouts whenever possible. In drunk driving cases, insurers may offer a fast settlement to avoid a larger payout later—especially if the intoxicated driver’s actions open the door to punitive damages.

Punitive damages are sometimes awarded in DUI cases to punish particularly reckless behavior and deter future misconduct. If a settlement is reached too early, the opportunity to pursue these damages may be lost. This is one reason it is so important to consult with an experienced attorney before accepting any offer.

How Drunk Driving Cases Differ

In many states, including Connecticut and New Jersey, where Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, practices, drunk driving is considered a form of gross negligence. This can significantly affect the outcome of a civil personal injury claim. Courts often take impaired driving very seriously, which may benefit victims seeking full and fair compensation.

In a number of states, DUI accident victims have the option to seek both compensatory and punitive damages. Compensatory damages cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, while punitive damages are designed to punish egregious misconduct.

Every case is different, and understanding how local laws apply to your specific situation is something only an experienced personal injury lawyer can do effectively.

Evaluating Future Costs and Needs

Before accepting any settlement, it’s important to calculate the full cost of recovery—including future needs. This may involve:

• Expert medical evaluations
• Prognosis from treating physicians
• Vocational assessments if you can’t return to your previous job
• Life care planners who can estimate long-term costs of care

In more serious cases, injuries may require lifetime assistance or modifications to your home or vehicle. These are real expenses that must be factored into any fair settlement.

Emotional and Psychological Effects

Trauma from a drunk driving crash doesn’t always end with physical injuries. Victims may suffer from anxiety, depression, PTSD, or other psychological effects. These conditions can last long after physical injuries heal and should be included when evaluating damages.

Mental health treatment and emotional suffering are valid components of a personal injury claim, but they are rarely considered in a quick insurance settlement. Ensuring these aspects are addressed often requires documentation, diagnosis, and professional support.

What to Do Before Accepting a Settlement

• Speak to an attorney: An experienced car accident lawyer can help you determine the value of your claim and seek fair compensation.
• Gather documentation: Medical records, accident reports, expert opinions, and work-related documents are all essential.
• Assess long-term impact: Make sure any lingering pain, reduced mobility, or future treatments are fully documented and valued.
• Avoid pressure: Insurance adjusters may try to rush you. Take the time you need to make a fully informed decision.

Call Brandon J. Broderick For Legal Help

At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we understand the lifelong impact a drunk driving accident can have on victims and their families.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI-related crash, don’t settle too quickly. Contact our team today for a free consultation.