DUI-related crashes are some of the most devastating accidents on Charlotte’s roads. While they represent a small portion of total car accidents, they account for a disproportionately high number of serious injuries and fatalities.
If you were injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver in Charlotte, call Ted A. Greve & Associates today for a free consultation. We’ll discuss the accident and your injuries, and we’ll advise you about your options for seeking compensation.
Understanding DUI Accidents in Charlotte, NC
Drunk driving accidents are hazardous because they often involve high speeds, reckless lane changes, and delayed reaction times. Victims are more likely to suffer severe injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, or permanent disability. These crashes are not only more violent—they often result in long-term consequences for those involved.
Charlotte continues to see a troubling number of alcohol-related traffic deaths, contributing to North Carolina’s ranking as one of the worst states in the nation for deadly DUI collisions. Holidays and weekends are even more hazardous, as impaired driving tends to increase during those times.
If you were injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver, you may be dealing with more than just physical pain. The financial and emotional toll can be crushing. From medical bills and lost wages to ongoing therapy and mental distress, the road to recovery isn’t easy.
Understanding your legal rights and taking early action can significantly affect your outcome. Holding the drunk driver accountable, whether through a settlement or trial, may help you move forward with the support and compensation you need.
Steps to Take Immediately After a DUI Accident
The aftermath of a DUI accident can feel chaotic and overwhelming. Knowing what steps to take immediately after the crash can protect your health and legal rights.
Call 911 right away.
Always report the accident to law enforcement. Officers will investigate the scene and determine whether the other driver was under the influence. Their police report and alcohol test results can become vital evidence for your claim.
Seek medical attention.
Even if you don’t think you’re seriously hurt, some injuries don’t immediately show symptoms. A prompt medical evaluation can catch hidden injuries and create a record of your condition.
Document the scene.
If it’s safe, take photos of both vehicles, license plates, road conditions, damage, and visible injuries. Get names and contact details from any witnesses nearby. This documentation can make a big difference in your case.
Be careful with insurance adjusters.
Never speak with the other driver’s insurance company before talking to a lawyer. Adjusters may try to settle quickly and offer far less than your claim is worth.
Contact a Charlotte DUI accident lawyer.
An experienced lawyer can guide you through the legal process, investigate the crash, and build a strong claim on your behalf.
These early steps can make all the difference. From your physical recovery to any legal action you pursue, staying informed and acting quickly will put you in the best position possible.
How a DUI Accident Lawyer Can Assist You
Victims of DUI crashes often face an uphill battle. Between hospital bills, therapy appointments, and missed work, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure where to turn. That’s where an experienced DUI accident lawyer becomes essential—not just for legal guidance, but for peace of mind during a difficult time.
Here’s how a DUI accident lawyer in Charlotte can help you:
Building a strong case:
Your lawyer will collect critical evidence such as police reports, toxicology results, medical records, and witness statements to prove the other driver’s liability.
Identifying all responsible parties:
In some situations, more than one party may share responsibility. Under North Carolina’s dram shop laws, a bar or restaurant could be liable if they overserved a visibly intoxicated driver.
Handling communication:
Your attorney will manage all correspondence with insurance companies, opposing lawyers, and other involved parties, relieving you of the pressure to respond or negotiate alone.
Calculating damages:
A good lawyer doesn’t just look at your current expenses. To pursue full compensation, they’ll assess long-term costs like future medical care, rehabilitation, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Representing you in court:
If a fair settlement isn’t offered, your lawyer will be prepared to take your case to trial and advocate aggressively on your behalf.
Legal support after a DUI crash gives you the time and space to heal, while someone experienced fights for your best outcome. You don’t have to go through this alone.
DUI Accident Statistics in Charlotte
Despite improvements in road safety, DUI-related crashes remain a leading cause of serious injuries and deaths in North Carolina. Charlotte, in particular, sees an alarming share of these accidents.
Consider the following statistics:
- In a single year, there were 12,146 DUI crashes statewide.
- Three hundred seventy-seven people died, and 8,103 were injured in North Carolina DUI accidents.
- 28.5% of all traffic deaths involved alcohol impairment.
- 63% of holiday crash deaths (like New Year’s Eve and Day) involved alcohol.
- Mecklenburg County saw between 109 and 117 DUI crashes yearly from 2017 to 2022.
- In 2020, 454 North Carolina deaths involved drivers with a BAC over 0.08. Another 82 deaths involved drivers who had alcohol in their systems but were not legally intoxicated.
- 52.3% of fatal crashes involved lane departures—a common factor in drunk driving wrecks.
These numbers show just how dangerous impaired driving is—and why it’s critical to hold drunk drivers accountable.
Get a Free Consultation from Ted A. Greve & Associates
Drunk driving accidents continue to cause heartbreak and hardship across Charlotte. If an impaired driver injured you or someone you love, you may be eligible for compensation to cover your medical bills, lost income, and other damages.
At Ted A. Greve & Associates, we help victims of DUI crashes recover and rebuild. Our team knows how to investigate these cases and pursue justice for those harmed by someone else’s reckless decision.
Let us fight for you while you focus on healing. Call us today for a free consultation and learn how we can help.
