Virginia Beach Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Drunk driving accidents can have devastating consequences, often resulting in severe injury or death. If a drunk driver has harmed you or a loved one, you may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, pain and suffering, and other damages specific to your case. 

I’m Ed Atkinson, and I’m an experienced Virginia Beach drunk driving accident lawyer. I started Atkinson Law because I knew I could provide best-in-class legal representation for those injured due to negligence.

When you choose me as your Virginia Beach car accident lawyer, I will speak with you personally, give your case my full attention, and advocate for you at every stage. I handle cases on a contingency basis, which means I only get paid when we win.

Contact me today to learn about your legal options during a free case evaluation.

Skilled Negotiation With Insurance Companies

You deserve full compensation for the losses you suffer from an accident caused by a drunk driver. However, it’s important to note that insurance companies may not willingly offer a fair settlement.

Their primary objective revolves around maximizing their profits, which can come at the expense of your rightful compensation. As an experienced car accident lawyer who used to represent insurers, I am well-versed in the tactics insurance adjusters use to diminish the value of your claim.

I will stand firm against these tactics, ensuring that you don’t settle for anything less than the maximum compensation available in your case. Allow me to handle this challenging process for you.

Compensation for Virginia Beach Drunk Driving Accident Victims

A collision involving a drunk driver can result in severe physical injuries and extensive property damage. 

For those who sustain catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) or spinal cord damage, the aftermath can be doubly challenging, often preventing them from working and earning a living.

Compensatory damages following a drunk driving accident include the following:

• Medical bills, including future medical expenses
• Lost wages
• Loss or reduction of future earning capacity
• Property damage
• Physical pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Scarring and disfigurement
• Loss of enjoyment of life

As your Virginia Beach personal injury lawyer, I am dedicated to building a compelling case that accurately portrays the accident’s impact on your life. 

Punitive Damages Are Often Awarded in Drunk Driving Cases

A drunk driving case is a classic example of a situation that warrants punitive damages. These additional damages serve as punishment for the negligent party and a deterrent against driving while under the influence. If the impaired driver who injured you had a blood alcohol level of 0.15% or higher, the court may award punitive damages.

Another situation that could lead to a punitive damage award is if the drunk driver unreasonably refused a breath test. The Code of Virginia § 18.2-268.2 recognizes this refusal as an unlawful disregard for the safety of others.

As a seasoned drunk driving accident lawyer serving Virginia Beach, I will review every aspect of your case to establish eligibility for punitive damages. Whether they had a blood alcohol content of 0.15% or engaged in other illegal behavior, I’ll work to build a strong case against them.

Compassionate Legal Support Following a Fatal Crash

Please accept my sincere condolences if a drunk driver has caused you to lose a loved one. Dealing with such a profound loss is incredibly difficult, and during this trying period, I want you to know that my heart goes out to you.

As your wrongful death attorney, I am dedicated to helping you obtain the maximum compensation for the emotional pain and financial hardship you’ve endured due to this devastating loss. 

Virginia’s wrongful death damages encompass the following:

• The decedent’s medical expenses
• Your sorrow and mental anguish
• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of the decedent’s income

While I understand that no amount of money can replace the irreplaceable, an insurance settlement or court award can provide you and your family with a foundation to rebuild your lives.

Virginia’s Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury Lawsuits

In most personal injury cases, you have a strict two-year window from the accident date to file a legal claim, as the Code of Virginia § 8.01-243 explains. However, exceptions may apply in certain circumstances, such as when the accident victim is a minor. The general deadline for filing a wrongful death claim is also two years.

While a couple of years may seem like a long time, getting immediate legal assistance increases your chances of a successful case outcome. If you reach out to Atkinson Law soon after a crash, I’ll have an easier time collecting evidence to strengthen your accident claim.

Allow Me, Ed Atkinson, to Be Your Virginia Beach Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

At Atkinson Law, I’ve set out to redefine how personal injury legal services are provided. With a commitment to treating every client like family, my firm offers aggressive legal representation and the genuine care and respect you deserve.

I take a hands-on approach and personally engage with each client right from the start. This level of dedication continues throughout the legal process. Don’t let an insurance company settle for less than your case is worth!

Call today or complete the online contact form for a complimentary, no-obligation case evaluation.