DUI Accidents Attorney Serving Minnesota
A drunk driving accident can leave victims grappling with life-altering physical injuries as well as emotional and financial challenges. If you have been involved in a DUI accident, you're likely dealing with invasive insurance companies who commonly try to minimize your payout.
At Gardner Law Office, LLC, we are ready to help you pursue rightful compensation for your injuries and damages. If you or a loved one is dealing with the consequences of a DUI accident, our team can guide you through every step of your DUI accident claim.
Located in Fridley, Minnesota, our skilled attorney helps clients throughout the state, including Minneapolis, St. Paul, Bloomington, Rochester, Mankato, Marshall, St. Cloud, Crookston, Bemidji, Grand Rapids, and Duluth, with the aftermath of DUI accidents. Reach out today to schedule a consultation.
Understanding DUI Accidents in Minnesota
Driving under the influence (DUI) is a reckless and illegal act that puts every motorist, passenger, and pedestrian on the road at risk. The effects of alcohol or drugs on a driver’s motor skills, reaction times, and decision-making mean that preventable accidents tragically occur far too often.
The fallout from DUI accidents can be devastating, including severe injuries such as broken bones, spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, and, in the worst scenarios, fatalities.
Beyond physical pain, victims may deal with post-traumatic stress, emotional distress, and mounting medical bills. When the negligent actions of a drunk driver change your life, you have the right to seek compensation.
At Gardner Law Office, our experienced personal injury attorney is focused on holding the responsible party accountable for their actions. If you're facing lost wages, medical expenses, or long-term suffering as a result of a DUI accident, we will advocate for you.
Holding Negligent Drivers Accountable
A DUI accident doesn’t just end with the crash—it triggers a series of challenges for the victims that often extend far beyond the immediate damages. That’s why our work begins with building a strong case on your behalf.
Investigating the Accident
We start by gathering evidence, including police reports, witness statements, traffic camera footage, and accident reconstruction data. These details will demonstrate that the driver’s intoxication was the primary cause of the crash.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Most insurance companies aim to settle for the lowest amounts possible. They often try to find ways to discredit your pain and suffering or undervalue your needs. You don’t have to handle these interactions on your own. We will take over all communication with insurers, so your rights and interests are protected throughout the process.
Calculating Your Losses
Accurately calculating your damages goes far beyond your medical expenses. We compile all your costs from loss of income, future medical care, property damage, and non-economic factors such as emotional trauma or reduced quality of life.
Our goal is not a quick fix but lasting results. Holding a drunk driver accountable goes beyond compensation—it sends a clear message that reckless driving won’t be tolerated.
Minnesota DUI Laws
Minnesota has strict laws regarding DUI offenses. Every driver should understand these laws and how they can potentially impact drivers who drink and drive. Some of the primary points include the following:
Legal Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) Limit
In Minnesota, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. For commercial vehicle drivers, the limit is lower at 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, any detectable level of alcohol is grounds for a DUI charge.
Implied Consent Law
Minnesota's implied consent law stipulates that by holding a Minnesota driver's license or driving in the state, drivers automatically consent to chemical tests (breath, blood, or urine tests) if they are suspected of a DUI. Refusal to take the test can result in license suspension and other penalties.
Penalties for DUI Offenses
Penalties vary based on the number of offenses and BAC levels. A first-time offender can face up to 90 days in jail, fines up to $1,000, and a possible license suspension. Repeat offenders and those with higher BAC levels face more severe consequences, including longer jail time and increased fines.
Felony DUI
A fourth DUI offense in ten years, a DUI resulting in injury or death, or a DUI while having certain aggravating factors can be charged as a felony, which can often lead to considerable penalties such as several years in prison and substantial fines.
Reinstatement and Cancellation of Licenses
Drivers convicted of DUI must meet certain requirements to have their driving privileges reinstated, which might include alcohol education, treatment programs, and paying reinstatement fees. Additionally, certain convictions can lead to permanent cancellation of driving privileges.
Compensation After a DUI Accident
If you've been injured in a DUI accident due to the negligence of another driver, you may be eligible to pursue compensation for a variety of damages, including but not limited to:
Medical expenses: This includes emergency care, surgeries, physical therapy, and anticipated medical costs associated with your injuries.
Lost wages: If you cannot work because of your injuries, you can claim for lost income, including future earning potential.
Pain and suffering: This includes the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
Property damage: Compensation for any damages to your vehicle or personal belongings caused by the crash.