Rolling Meadows Drunk Driver Liability Attorneys

Lawyers in Arlington Heights for Accidents Related to Driving Under the Influence

Some car accidents are all but unavoidable. For example, an icy road could lead to a crash even if every driver involved did everything possible to prevent the accident. Other accidents are more avoidable because they are associated with negligent acts, such as speeding, texting while driving, or running a red light. Drunk driving accidents are also preventable, and they fall under a separate category of reckless behavior because they are caused by the willful actions of a driver who has had too much to drink.

At Newland & Newland, LLP, we are aggressive advocates for victims who have been injured by drunk drivers. We do everything possible to hold reckless drivers accountable for their actions and to get injured victims the compensation they need to start moving forward. If you or a member of your family has been hurt in a drunk driving-related crash, we will provide the trusted guidance and responsible representation you deserve.

Negligence per se and Presumed Liability in Illinois

As it is in every state, drunk driving is illegal in Illinois, and driving under the influence (DUI) can be prosecuted as a misdemeanor or a felony depending on the circumstances. As such, when a drunk driver causes an accident-and being on the road while drunk may be enough to be considered "causing" the accident-he or she is presumed to have been negligent and therefore liable for any injuries sustained by anyone involved. This principle is known as "negligence per se."

The presumption of negligence and liability, however, does not mean that collecting full compensation will be easy. It is common for an insurance company to attempt to shift some of the responsibility for the accident to you, even if the other driver was drunk. The insurance carrier may also dispute the extent of your injuries to reduce the payout. In some cases, an insurer will simply ignore or delay payment for a valid claim.

In some cases, the drunk driver might not be the only liable party. Illinois law also provides that if the driver was visibly intoxicated in a bar or restaurant and the staff continued to serve him or her, the establishment could be partially responsible for injuries caused by the drunk driver.

Building a Winning Case in Palatine and Schaumburg

Attorney Gary A. Newland and his team know how important it is to act quickly after an accident caused by a drunk driver. In a very short amount of time, important evidence could be lost or compromised. We are ready to go to work on your behalf as soon as you contact our office. Our attorneys will fully investigate the crash and details surrounding the accident. We will determine what happened and figure out which party or parties may be responsible so that we can help you get full compensation without unnecessary delays.

At Newland & Newland, LLP, we understand that a drunk driving accident can change your life dramatically, and we will help you move forward. We also realize that collecting compensation is possible even if the drunk driver is not convicted, but a conviction will usually make the process easier. Regardless of the challenges you may be facing, our experienced team is equipped to provide the assistance you need.

Call 847-797-8000 Today

To learn more about drunk driver liability in Illinois, contact our office. Call 847-797-8000 for a free, confidential consultation and case evaluation today. Our lawyers serve clients in Cook County, Lake County, DuPage County, and the rest of Northern Illinois.