Your Rights After an Accident Caused by a Drunk Driver

Proudly Representing the Chattanooga, Nashville and Nearby Atlanta, GA areas for 30 years

Accidents caused by drunk or intoxicated drivers injure and kill hundreds of people in Tennessee each year. According to the National Traffic Safety Administration, 1/3rd of all traffic-related deaths are caused by drunk or intoxicated drivers, with a fatal accident occurring, on average, every 52 minutes in the United States.

When you are injured or a loved one is killed by a drunk driver, you are entitled to seek compensation for all related damages. In the case of serious injury, this may include hospital bills, property damage, lost wages, and physical and emotional pain and suffering. In the case of wrongful death, surviving family members may be able to seek damages for end-of-life expenses, lost future financial contributions, loss of companionship, emotional suffering, and more.

If you suspect you have a case, use the contact form on this page to get in touch with our Chattanooga office for a free consultation and learn more about your options and your rights.

Criminal Charges vs. Civil Action

When a drunk driver causes an accident that injures or kills someone else, they may be held criminally liable for their actions. This can result in prison, fines, a loss of driving privileges, and more. Criminal prosecution is an action the state takes against a drunk driver. It has no bearing on your rights as a civilian.

Regardless of criminal charges, victims of drunk drivers have the option of seeking compensation through a civil lawsuit. Criminal proceedings are not intended to provide restitution to victims of drunk and intoxicated drivers. For this, you need to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit, a process that is best overseen by an experienced lawyer.

Why Choose Herbert Thornbury

Herbert Thornbury, Esquire is a board-certified trial specialist with more than 40 years of experience. Attentive, accomplished, and proven, Mr. Thornbury is passionate about helping victims of serious injury and loss get the justice they are due. With a deep understanding of the law and an unyielding commitment to his clients, Attorney Thornbury welcomes the opportunity to meet with you for a private and confidential consultation where you can ask all of your questions, learn more about your options, and begin the process of seeking fair and full compensation.

Please call Herbert Thornbury, Attorney at Law at 423-991-2231 to schedule a free consultation today.