Iowa Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

If a drunk driver caused an accident in Iowa that hurt you or a close family member, you’re likely searching for answers and wondering how to get justice for your injuries and losses. 

The legal team at Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers understands the pain and grief you’re enduring, and we’re here to help. A skilled Iowa drunk driving accident lawyer from our firm can inform you of your rights and options to seek compensation and fight for you and your family through every stage of the process.

You can rely on us to handle all the legal complexities while you focus on healing and moving forward. We are committed to holding the drunk driver accountable for their reckless decision and maximizing your financial recovery.

With an attorney from our team on your side, you can rest assured a dedicated legal advocate is looking out for you and working diligently to obtain the best outcome possible.

Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s discuss how we can help.

Why Choose Nicolet Law to Handle Your Iowa Drunk Driving Accident Claim

Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers brings both experience and compassion to every case. We understand that you may be dealing with difficult injuries, missed work, and the financial pressures of medical bills. If a drunk driver killed someone close to you, we genuinely empathize with your ordeal and will provide the support you need to pursue the justice you deserve.

Our attorneys offer personalized representation, keeping you informed and involved in each step of your case. From gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies and going to court if necessary, we’re prepared to handle all aspects of your case. Our team prioritizes transparent communication, so you always know what’s happening and can reach out with any questions or concerns.

We’re also familiar with the Iowa communities most affected by drunk driving accidents. Certain areas, such as Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Sioux City, tend to see a higher frequency of DUI incidents. This local knowledge, combined with our dedication to each client, helps us craft strong claims tailored to Iowa’s laws and practices.

When you choose Nicolet Law, you select an award-winning law firm that has achieved unprecedented results for our clients. Family owned and operated since 2007, we treat each client like family, and we’ve built a solid reputation in our communities. 

Since we operate on a contingency fee basis, you pay no upfront costs or bills along the way. We only accept attorney fees as a percentage of the settlement or award we obtain for you. You risk nothing financially to hire the quality legal representation you need.

We welcome the opportunity to discuss your claim at no cost and show you the difference we can make in your case. 

Iowa’s Drunk Driving Laws and Legal Considerations

Iowa law sets specific blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limits. Drivers with a BAC of 0.08% or higher are considered legally intoxicated. However, even lower levels can result in charges if the driver shows signs of impairment. For commercial drivers, the limit drops to 0.04%, and for those under 21, any detectable alcohol level (above 0.02%) can lead to serious consequences.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

Drunk driving incidents often involve both criminal and civil proceedings. While the state may prosecute the driver for DUI charges, this criminal case focuses on punishment, not compensation for the victim.

To recover your losses, you’ll need to pursue a civil case with the help of a lawyer. In civil court, your attorney can seek compensation for the injuries and damages the driver’s negligence caused, independent of the outcome of the criminal case.

Iowa Dram Shop Laws

Iowa’s dram shop laws hold bars, restaurants, and other alcohol-serving establishments accountable if they serve alcohol to visibly intoxicated patrons or underage individuals who later cause harm to others in a drunk driving accident. Pursuing a claim under Iowa’s dram shop law adds another layer of accountability, potentially allowing your attorney to seek compensation from both the driver and the establishment that overserved them.

Iowa Drunk Driving Statistics

Drunk driving remains a significant problem across Iowa. Certain areas, such as Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport, are more prone to DUI accidents. Recent data from the Iowa Department of Transportation shows:

• Alcohol-impaired crashes killed 61 people during a recent year.
• Drug-impaired crashes killed 59 people.
• On average, 37% of all traffic-related fatalities in Iowa involved an impaired driver.

These statistics reflect the tragic impact of impaired driving on Iowa communities. While local and state law enforcement have increased efforts to reduce DUI incidents, especially during holidays and weekends, victims still suffer the consequences of drivers who make the reckless choice to get behind the wheel after drinking.

When this occurs, affected individuals and families must work with qualified legal representation to hold the at-fault parties accountable and seek fair compensation.

Injuries and Losses Resulting from Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk driving accidents are some of the most devastating traffic incidents, often resulting in life-altering injuries and substantial financial losses for victims and their families. At Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers, we’re here to help you seek compensation and regain stability after such a traumatic event.

• Head and Brain Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, and other head injuries are common in drunk driving accidents due to the high-speed impacts often involved. Brain injuries can lead to cognitive impairments, memory loss, mood changes, and chronic headaches. In severe cases, they may result in long-term disabilities that impact a victim’s independence and career prospects.
• Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis: Damage to the spinal cord may lead to partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity and location of the injury. This kind of injury profoundly affects a person’s life, often requiring extensive medical treatment, physical therapy, and adjustments to their living environment. Victims may need wheelchairs, accessible homes, and long-term support for daily activities.
• Broken Bones and Fractures: Broken arms, legs, ribs, and other bones are common injuries in severe crashes. Some fractures require surgery, rehabilitation, and immobilization, and may cause lasting pain or limited mobility. Complex fractures can lead to ongoing complications and disrupt the victim’s ability to work and engage in hobbies.
• Internal Organ Damage: High-impact crashes may cause internal injuries to organs like the liver, kidneys, or lungs. These injuries often necessitate immediate surgery and may carry long-term health risks. Internal bleeding is also a significant concern and may be life-threatening without prompt medical attention.
• Soft Tissue Injuries: Whiplash, ligament damage, and muscle strains often result from the forceful movements in a collision. Though not always visible, these injuries can lead to chronic pain, restricted movement, and the need for ongoing therapy.
• Burns and Disfigurement: Fires and explosions in drunk driving accidents can cause severe burns that lead to scarring and disfigurement. Victims may require multiple surgeries, skin grafts, and counseling to cope with both physical pain and emotional trauma from their injuries.
• Emotional Trauma: Surviving a drunk driving accident can leave deep psychological scars. Many victims experience post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. Recovering from these conditions often requires therapy, and emotional recovery may be as challenging as physical recovery.

Wrongful Death and Family Losses

In the most tragic cases, a drunk driving accident kills a close family member. Families who lose someone in these preventable accidents face unimaginable grief and significant financial hardships.

Losing a spouse, parent, or child leaves a profound emotional void, and the sudden loss can disrupt family dynamics and financial stability.

Beyond the pain of losing a loved one, families may face:

• Funeral and Burial Costs: Unexpected end-of-life expenses create a financial burden that many families are unprepared to shoulder, adding stress during an already difficult time.
• Loss of Financial Support: If the person who passed away was a primary earner, their absence can lead to immediate financial struggles, especially if they provided for young children or elderly parents.
• Emotional Suffering and Loss of Companionship: The loss of a loved one impacts every part of family life, leaving a void that is deeply felt. This loss of companionship and support is irreplaceable, and families often struggle to find peace and closure.

Financial Losses and Additional Costs After a Drunk Driving Accident

The costs of recovery after a drunk driving accident are steep and can accumulate quickly. Even if a victim has insurance, the expenses often exceed coverage limits. Here are some common financial losses that drunk driving accident victims face:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages and reduced earning potential
• Rehabilitation and therapy costs
• Home modifications and assistive devices
• Pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other psychological issues
• Property damage

How We Can Help You Recover Compensation After a Drunk Driving Accident in Iowa

Our process focuses on holding the drunk driver accountable while making the claims process as smooth as possible for you. After you contact us, we’ll start with a detailed investigation of your case. This includes gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage. We may also consult with accident reconstruction experts and medical professionals to fully understand the extent of your injuries and losses.

Our team is adept at negotiating with insurance companies, which often attempt to downplay your injuries or shift the blame. We push back against these tactics and fight for a fair settlement that covers your medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and any other applicable damages. If the insurance company or at-fault party refuses to offer a reasonable settlement, we’re prepared to take your case to trial.

What You Need to Do Following a DUI Accident in Iowa

After a drunk driving accident, taking certain steps can help protect your rights and support your claim for compensation. Here’s what you should do at the scene and in the days following the accident.

Steps to Take at the Accident Scene

• Call for emergency medical assistance even if you think your injuries are minor. Many injuries are not immediately visible but may worsen without treatment.
• Report the accident to law enforcement and ask officers to come to the scene and file a police report. This report will document the details of the crash, including signs of the other driver’s intoxication.
• If possible, take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. Exchange contact information with witnesses who can support your case.
• Be careful when discussing the accident, as anything you say could be used against you by the insurance company or the other party’s attorney. Stick to the facts and avoid admitting any fault.

Steps to Take After the Accident if You’re Recovering at Home or in the Hospital

If you’re recovering from serious injuries, there are still steps you can take to protect your rights. Contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as you can to help start the process on your behalf. A lawyer can gather evidence, speak to witnesses, and begin negotiations with the insurance company while you focus on healing.

Iowa Drunk Driving Accident FAQs

Contact an Experienced Iowa Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Now

Recovering compensation after a drunk driving accident in Iowa is a critical step toward rebuilding your life. Nicolet Law Accident & Injury Lawyers is here to support you every step of the way. 

You can rely on our team of compassionate and skilled attorneys to help you pursue justice and hold the drunk driver accountable for their actions.

Contact us today at 1-855-NICOLET for a free case evaluation, and let’s work together to secure the compensation you deserve.