Phoenix Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Drunk driving accidents are not only tragic but also preventable. If you or your loved one has been in a crash with an intoxicated driver, you may be experiencing extensive medical bills, time off work, and emotional trauma.
Based in Phoenix, Runion Personal Injury Lawyers is here to help injury victims across Arizona seek justice and full compensation. We offer free consultations, and clients never pay more in fees than they recover; that’s our Net Recovery Guarantee. You can trust our Phoenix drunk driving accident lawyers to obtain the financial recovery you deserve. Call us today at 602-825-3502.
$50+ Million Recovered
Content Reviewed By: Derick Runion
Table of Contents
- Steps to Take After a DUI Accident
- Why You Should Choose Runion After a Drunk Driving Crash
- A Deeper Look at Drunk Driving Accidents in Phoenix
- Understanding Your Legal Rights as a Drunk Driving Victim
- Recoverable Compensation for a Drunk Driving Case
- Runion Personal Injury Lawyers Can Build a Solid Case
- Get in Touch With Our Phoenix Law Office for a Free Consultation
- Frequently Asked Questions About Drunk Driving Accidents in Phoenix
Steps to Take After a DUI Accident
On average, two out of three people will be involved in a DUI (driving under the influence) crash during their lifetime. With such a staggering statistic, it’s crucial to know the steps to take immediately after one of these accidents.
Call medical emergency services for injuries, and don’t speak with insurance adjusters before contacting a lawyer. Our Phoenix drunk driving attorneys are ready to step in quickly to take over the legal burden.
Take Safety Measures and Seek Medical Attention
First, you’ll need to prioritize safety. If anyone sustained an injury from the wreck, call medical services for support. You’ll also need to contact 911 to report the incident.
Preserve Vital Evidence for Your Claim
Take photos and videos of the scene, including pictures of damage to vehicles, injuries, and the setting. If possible, ask witnesses for their contact information and exchange insurance information with other involved drivers. Having as much evidence of what took place as possible is key to a successful case.
Avoid Speaking With the Insurance Company
Speaking to insurance adjusters without the help of a lawyer can damage your claim. Oftentimes, these entities will use what the victim says against them, twisting their words and placing fault. Our attorneys can use their well-crafted negotiation skills to fight for fair compensation without harming your case.
Get in Touch With Runion Personal Injury Lawyers
Schedule a free consultation today to allow our team to evaluate your case. There are no legal fees unless we win, removing any financial burden from working with us.
Why You Should Choose Runion After a Drunk Driving Crash
We are a trusted, local firm with deep roots in Phoenix and a proven track record of success. Our firm’s unique and personalized approach helps clients recover faster—physically, financially, and emotionally.
We Have a Proven Track Record
With a 99 percent success rate and over $50 million recovered since 2011, our team has a long history of delivering results. Founding attorney Derick Runion has been recognized as a Super Lawyers Rising Star and brings deep knowledge of Arizona’s legal system to every case.
We Offer Successful Case Results
We are proud to present our impressive case results as a reflection of our commitment to our clients:
$1,250,000
- Car Accident
Runion Personal Injury Lawyers filed suit against a company whose superintendent collided with our client’s vehicle necessitating neck and back surgery. Our firm obtained policy limits in the amount of $1.25 million from the company and its superintendent.
$600,000
- Car Accident
Our client was involved in a serious collision while driving her vehicle, resulting in head trauma and other injuries. Runion Personal Injury Lawyers presented scientific evidence to link her aneurysm to the automobile collision and obtained a $600,000.00 settlement for the client.
We Know How Insurance Companies Think
Derick Runion’s previous work in the insurance industry gives clients an edge. He offers strategies tailored to overcome insurance company tactics.
Our Phoenix-based Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers
Our headquarters are in Phoenix, and many of our attorneys are natives to the Valley, having grown up in the area and honed their skills in Arizona law. Derick Runion is Arizona-born and raised, having attended undergrad and law school at Arizona State University. Additionally, to further expand our reach, we offer bilingual services in English and Spanish.
Hear From the People We’ve Helped: Real Stories From Our Clients
We can go on about our many successes and triumphs, but don’t just take our word for it; read our testimonials to better understand past clients’ experiences with us.
After my car accident I was knee deep in medical bills and insurance claim paperwork. Runion personal injury lawyer has some of the best lawyers for car accidents. They worked professionally and in a timely matter to make all the paperwork and process for the injury claim to go a lot faster. Didn’t have to fight the insurance to deal with this rear end accident. I love how quickly they got me a great settlement and always kept in touch with me and kept me up to date on everything. I thought I was going to be at a complete lost but thanks to some of the best lawyers especially in New Mexico they got me a great settlement when the insurance was make it a hassle. Definitely if you need a lawyer in New Mexico go with Runion personal lawyer.
Tay
My injuries were so bad I could not work or do most daily chores. I was so scared and knew no one in the area. I feel I found the best personal injury lawyer anywhere. Not only did they help win my settlement claim without any upfront fees, but they found me an amazing medical provider and helped me to be able to keep all my appointments and gave me piece of mind in my healing process. In the end my attorney fees were paid medical bills paid and I had enough left over to catch up on my bills in time and take some time to appreciate my new found health.
Steve Ramos-Peterson
A Deeper Look at Drunk Driving Accidents in Phoenix
Drunk driving incidents are common in Phoenix and across Arizona, and always devastating. When people choose to drink alcohol before getting behind the wheel, they impair their driving abilities and increase the risks of a collision. These cases are often more complex than a typical personal injury claim. You may be dealing with more significant damages, liability disputes, and a separate criminal case.
Arizona’s Definition of Drunk Driving
In Arizona, it is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 or higher. Even with a lower BAC, however, alcohol can still impair your ability to drive safely. The penalties for a DUI-related crash vary based on the driver’s BAC and the circumstances of the accident, including the extent of injuries and property damage. It’s also important to note that criminal penalties are separate from potential civil liability.
If a DUI crash causes serious injury, the driver may face aggravated assault charges, a Class 2 felony that can carry a lengthy prison sentence, often ranging from seven to 21 years depending on the circumstances. If the accident results in a fatality, prosecutors may pursue charges such as negligent homicide, manslaughter, or even second-degree murder, depending on the driver’s level of recklessness.
Common DUI Wreck Scenarios
Intoxication significantly impacts driving behavior and response time, distracting the driver and making it difficult to avoid obstacles in the road or control the steering wheel. Due to lowered inhibition and suppressed senses, a drunk driver could end up going the wrong way in traffic, crossing an occupied intersection, or even hitting a pedestrian.
Determining Whether an At-Fault Driver Was Impaired
If you are hit by a driver that you suspect is under the influence, you can look for several signs, including slurred speech or open containers. It’s essential to call 911 as well so that they can perform sobriety tests and file a report of the incident. Having a police report on hand that shows the other driver failed the BAC test will benefit your case.
Understanding Your Legal Rights as a Drunk Driving Victim
Arizona law works to protect victims of drunk driving. You have the right to pursue civil action even if criminal charges are pending or filed. In fact, you may have more legal options than you realize, especially in cases involving fatalities or third-party liability.
Can Civil and Criminal DUI Cases Co-Exist?
You can still sue even if the other driver is facing criminal charges. However, it’s important to act quickly with your civil case, even if there are ongoing criminal proceedings. The statute of limitations for most personal injury claims in Arizona is two years from the date of injury or death caused by injury.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim?
Under Arizona Revised Statutes § 12-612, the following parties are eligible to file a wrongful death claim:
- Surviving spouse
- Surviving children
- Surviving parents or guardians
- Personal representative of the deceased’s estate
Additional damages may be available in fatal DUI cases, including the following:
- Funeral and burial costs
- Medical expenses related to the fatal injury
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship, care, and guidance
- Emotional pain and suffering
Arizona Dram Shop Laws
Under certain circumstances, a bar or restaurant can be held liable for a DUI accident. According to A.R.S. § 4-311, a licensed alcohol vendor can be held liable for injuries or death caused by a patron if they:
- Served them alcohol despite the patron being clearly intoxicated
- Served alcohol to a minor, whether or not the patron appeared intoxicated
The best way to prove that an establishment played a role in a driver’s drunk driving accident is to review the police report and preserve evidence. The report may contain information on the driver’s BAC levels and statements they made about where they were drinking. You can also contact the establishment to obtain video footage.
By partnering with our drunk driving attorneys in Phoenix, we can work tirelessly to collect crucial evidence of the driver or a potential establishment’s liability. These cases can be complex, and our team is experienced in Arizona dram shop claims.
Recoverable Compensation for a Drunk Driving Case
A personal injury claim can cover a full scope of elements in a DUI accident. Many people underestimate the long-term costs of these crashes, and compensation goes far beyond just medical bills. You may be eligible for both economic and non-economic damages, plus the possibility of punitive damages in severe cases.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are the tangible, objective losses you experience from a personal injury and can cover medical expenses, rehab costs, property damage, and lost wages.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages cover compensation for subjective, more difficult to calculate losses, including pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
Punitive Damages
In cases involving especially egregious behavior, a court may award the plaintiff or their surviving family with additional compensation known as punitive damages. These are meant to punish the reckless behavior and deter similar actions in the future.
Runion Personal Injury Lawyers Can Build a Solid Case
Our team takes several strategic steps to build a compelling case. We provide swift and in-depth investigations, access to experts, and a full-service support model. We’re aggressive, thorough, and committed to delivering results, especially when insurance companies try to downplay the seriousness of a DUI crash.
Access to Experts
Our attorneys can easily access accident reconstructions, toxicology reports, and medical experts to build a compelling case on your behalf.
Full-Service Case Management
When you choose to work with us, we take on all communication with insurers, while keeping you informed every step of the way.
Get in Touch With Our Phoenix Law Office for a Free Consultation
If you or your loved one has been injured in a collision with a negligent driver, don’t hesitate to get the help you deserve today. Our team can navigate a personal injury or wrongful death case with ease, ensuring your family receives the justice and compensation you’re entitled to.
We offer free consultations and a guarantee that you won’t pay unless we win your case. Contact our Phoenix drunk driving accident lawyers today to start your journey towards recovery.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drunk Driving Accidents in Phoenix
Our FAQs are meant to further inform prospective and current clients about our process to keep them well-informed.
Can I File a Claim if the Driver Is Facing Criminal DUI Charges?
Yes. You can pursue a civil personal injury claim for compensation separately from the criminal case.
How Long Do I Have to File a DUI Accident Lawsuit in Arizona?
In most cases, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident.
What if I Were a Passenger in the Drunk Driver’s Car?
You may still have a valid claim, depending on the circumstances. An attorney can evaluate your options.
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Case Results
Over $50 Million recovered
$1,250,000
- Car Accident
Runion Personal Injury Lawyers filed suit against a company whose superintendent collided with our client’s vehicle necessitating neck and back surgery. Our firm obtained policy limits in the amount of $1.25 million from the company and its superintendent.
$600,000
- Car Accident
Our client was involved in a serious collision while driving her vehicle, resulting in head trauma and other injuries. Runion Personal Injury Lawyers presented scientific evidence to link her aneurysm to the automobile collision and obtained a $600,000.00 settlement for the client.
What Our Clients Say
I was rear ended by a drunk driver and it was a hit and run. I contacted Runion Law firm and they immediately jumped on the case! They arranged for medical treatment for my injuries, worked with both insurance companies, and secured me a large settlement! Their staff was always in contact and kept me up to date on progress. I would highly recommend them to anyone involved in a personal injury case.
Chris B.
Hands down, these guys are the best! I was in a car accident, I got rear-ended. The staff and attorneys at Runion Personal Injury Lawyers took great care of me. They handled EVERYTHING from medical bills to fighting with the other guys insurance company who tried to claim their client wasn’t at fault. Aside from taking care of the medical bills, the settlement they got me was very good. I have been recommending Runion to everyone because I think they are the best accident attorneys around.
Dan C.
Working With Us Is Easy And No-Risk
Get Better. Get Compensated. Get Justice.
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