Suppose you want to engage a car accident lawyer in your case after getting hit on the road. In that instance, you will need to understand whether this lawsuit is categorized as a crime or a civil suit. Understanding this element will help ensure that you get the right legal representation in the long run. The following are some of the notable instances when a car accident is considered a crime.
Driving Under the Influence
Driving under the influence is a criminal offense in various states. It refers to when a person operates, drives, or uses a motor vehicle while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs. When a person hits you on the road in such a state, it would be best to get an attorney to protect your rights.
An excellent attorney will help establish liability and sue for damages. In addition, any DUI offender that seriously injures you is looking at felony charges. This driver could also be subject to vehicular homicide charges if the accident becomes fatal.
Various compensation elements suffice in a DUI case. For instance, you will be free to negotiate for the reimbursement of medical bills, psychological counseling, lost wages and lost earning capacity. Your attorney can also ask for damages to cover pain and suffering, loss of life enjoyment, and occupational rehabilitation.
Vehicular Manslaughter
You could also refer to it as vehicular homicide. It arises when the driver uses an automobile illegally or recklessly. Gross negligence, drunk driving, and murderous vehicular operation are the most significant causes of vehicular manslaughter.
A driver convicted of vehicular manslaughter faces prison sentences, loss of driving license, and fines. The length of the sentence and the amount of fines will vary with the state.
Yet, an excellent lawyer will ensure that you are compensated for the damages caused by this reckless driver. These damages include loss of income, burial expenses, and loss of the breadwinner. In short, the driver will have to pay restitution to your family.
Hit-and-Run Accidents
A hit-and-run accident is considered a felony. This crime focuses on the aftermath of the accident instead of its cause. Typically, the law requires the driver to stop at the scene of an accident or collision. Suppose they fail to do so. In that case, you will be free to file a lawsuit against them. An experienced lawyer will guide you through this process.
Ensure that you engage a reputable accident attorney to help protect your rights. This professional will establish liability and ensure the driver pays for the damages caused. These damages include medical expenses, auto repair costs, and property loss. In addition, you will be entitled to restitution if the driver caused the loss of life.
Reckless Driving and Fleeing from Police
Reckless driving is considered a criminal offense, unlike improper and careless driving. It arises when the driver disregards all traffic rules, endangering the lives of other road users and the public. If you become a victim of this reckless driving, you will be free to sue. Fleeing the police will likely trigger reckless driving. Besides, it is a crime in itself. A driver fleeing from the police could expose you to danger, including death.
In both instances, you will need an experienced attorney to represent you. This lawyer will help negotiate the best compensation package in the long run. The compensation aims to reimburse your medical costs, lost wages, incapacitation, and wrongful death.
Having a lawyer by your side will help improve your chances at the negotiation table. This attorney will utilize their skills and extensive experience to get you the best deal. With the insights above, you understand when you can file a criminal lawsuit against the driver.