Commercial OWI Accidents

Commercial OWI Accident Attorneys

Were You or a Loved One Injured by a Drunk Truck Driver?

Operating any motor vehicle while intoxicated is illegal in every single state throughout the U.S. Laws regarding drunk and drugged driving are particularly strict for commercial vehicle drivers. Because these drivers are often operating large, heavy semi-trucks, tractor-trailers, big rigs, and delivery trucks, it is all the more important that they are not impaired. However, commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders often choose to get behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or illicit substances—frequently with catastrophic results.

If you or someone you love was involved in an accident with an intoxicated commercial vehicle operator, turn to the team at Dunk Law Firm. Since 2004, we have been aggressively fighting for the rights of truck accident victims in Wisconsin, Texas, and nationwide. We can help you understand your rights and work quickly to build a case aimed at securing the maximum compensation you are owed. Your time to file a claim is limited, so do not wait to contact our commercial OWI accident lawyers right away and learn how we can help you and your family get back on your feet.

We offer free initial consultations and provide legal services in English and Spanish. Call us at (800) 674-9339 or contact us online today to get started.

What Is “Operating While Intoxicated?”

Operating while intoxicated (OWI), also referred to as driving under the influence (DUI) in some states, refers to anyone who operates a motor vehicle while impaired by alcohol and/or drugs. While state laws vary somewhat, in most cases, it is illegal for anyone with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or above to operate a motor vehicle. For commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders, however, the laws tend to be stricter. In most states, CDL holders cannot operate a motor vehicle with a BAC of 0.04% or higher.

The penalties for commercial OWI are also strict; those found guilty of a first-time offense could face CDL disqualification for a certain number of years, as well as jail time, fines, and additional criminal penalties. For a second or subsequent offense, the penalties increase. In some states, multiple commercial OWI/DUI convictions will result in the CDL holder losing his or her CDL for the remainder of his or her life.

Why Are Commercial OWI Cases So Complex?

When you are hit by a drunk driver, it may seem pretty obvious that the drunk driver is the one to blame. After all, getting behind the wheel of a motor vehicle after drinking alcohol or taking drugs is a choice and a clear example of negligence.

However, commercial OWI accidents are not like typical drunk driving accidents. While the intoxicated truck driver is likely to be considered at least partially liable for the accident, he or she might not be the only liable party. The intoxicated truck driver may not even be the mostly liable party.

Under what are known as respondeat superior laws, employers can often be held liable for their employees’ conduct. This means that you might be able to seek compensation by filing a claim against the trucking company’s insurance company. It’s important to note, however, that the trucking company may try to argue that they were not responsible for the truck driver’s gross negligence, in which case, you will need to file a claim against the truck driver (or another third party, such as a bar that over-served the truck driver).

As you can see, these cases can quickly become very complex. It’s incredibly important that you have an experienced commercial drunk driving accident lawyer on your side who can navigate the legal process for you so that you can focus on what matters: getting the medical care you need, healing, and moving forward with your life.

What Damages Are Available in Commercial OWI Accident Cases?

Like other types of drunk driving accidents, commercial OWI accidents often lead to devastating consequences. However, the sheer size and weight of commercial vehicles means that, when an intoxicated truck driver loses control, the destruction is immense.

Victims of commercial drunk driving accidents often sustain catastrophic injuries. Tragically, many of these collisions are fatal. Victims and/or their loved ones will face staggering physical, emotional, and financial costs—but a commercial OWI accident attorney can help you seek fair compensation.

Depending on the specifics of your case, our firm can help you seek compensation for the following damages:

• Emergency medical treatment
• Ambulance and hospital fees
• Ongoing medical care
• Rehabilitative therapy
• Pain management and medications
• Medical equipment
• Lost income/wages
• Lost future earnings
• Lost or reduced earning capacity (disability)
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Counseling services
• Funeral/burial expenses
• Loss of love, companionship, and support
• Property damage

We understand just how difficult it can be to move forward after such a devastating accident, and we know that no amount of financial compensation can undo what you have been through. However, we also know the healing power of justice, which is why our attorneys fight tirelessly on behalf of victims of negligence. We can help you work to hold the negligent truck driver or trucking company accountable for your losses.

A Free Consultation Is Just a Phone Call Away

At Dunk Law Firm, we offer free initial consultations to all new and prospective clients. During this consultation, we will sit down with you and learn more about your case, including what happened and how it has affected your life. We’ll be able to answer your questions and inform you of your various legal options, as well as whether we believe you have a case.

Our firm provides contingency fees, which means we only collect attorneys’ fees if and when we secure compensation for you. If we don’t win your case, you don’t pay!