Commercial Driver DUI: The Long-Term Effects
There’s nothing quite as daunting as dealing with the aftermath of a DUI accident, particularly one involving a commercial driver. DUI in a commercial vehicle often results in severe, life-altering injuries. These range from fractures and burns to spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries. The impact of such injuries goes beyond immediate physical harm; their long-term effects can be equally catastrophic.
In Maryland, the laws surrounding DUI accidents and liabilities are stringent. If a commercial driver has a Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) of 0.04% or more, they are considered to be driving under the influence, breaching the CDL DUI laws.
As a victim of a DUI accident involving a commercial driver, Maryland law entitles you to claim compensation for your injuries and associated costs. The road to recovery can be a bumpy one, but at the Law Office of Robert Castro, we are here to help you deal with the long-term effects of your injury by recovering the compensation you deserve.
Long-Term Effects of Injuries From Commercial DUI Accidents
Commercial drivers operating under the influence of alcohol or drugs present a severe risk on Maryland roads. Accidents caused by impaired commercial drivers can result in a variety of serious injuries:
1. Fractures and Broken Bones
The immediate impact of a fracture in a DUI accident can cause intense pain, immobilization, and require urgent medical attention. As the injured party begins the healing process, it often necessitates surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing medical monitoring.
The aftermath can result in permanent changes in mobility. Such broken bones have a profound effect on daily living, sometimes requiring extensive home modifications or assistance.
2. Spinal Cord Injuries
Transitioning from the harrowing effects of broken bones, the devastation continues with potential spinal cord injuries. The immediate trauma can lead to loss of sensation, mobility, or even paralysis in certain parts of the body.
As the victim adjusts to a new reality, long-term care may include rehabilitation, occupational therapy, psychological counseling, and adaptive equipment. Such spinal injuries often necessitate a complete lifestyle change, affecting the ability to work, participate in hobbies, and perform everyday tasks.
3. Traumatic Brain Injuries
Beyond the physical disabilities that come with fractures and spinal injuries, traumatic brain injuries (TBI) bring a new set of challenges. These can cause immediate effects like unconsciousness, memory loss, confusion, and other cognitive issues. The long-term care required for recovery may involve speech and occupational therapy, counseling, and medication management.
However, the scars may run deeper, as victims might face a lifetime of challenges. Impaired cognitive functions and long-term mental health issues can affect every aspect of life, from relationships and work to personal independence.
Each of these injuries paints a grim picture of the potential consequences of DUI in a commercial vehicle. The long-term effects echo far beyond the initial accident, often transforming lives and emphasizing the critical importance of CDL DUI laws in Maryland.
DUI Settlement and Statute of Limitations
The compensation obtained from a DUI accident claim can cover a broad spectrum of costs and damages. These include medical expenses, future treatment costs, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering and emotional distress.
It’s important to understand, though, that the road to compensation isn’t always straightforward. The process of quantifying these damages and negotiating a fair settlement demands a deep understanding of Maryland’s personal injury law. It’s not just about knowing the numbers but navigating the complexities of legal standards and precedents. Here, the assistance of a qualified Waldorf personal injury attorney can be invaluable during this process.
Further, time is of the essence when seeking compensation for a DUI accident. The state’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is 3 years from the date of the accident. While this timeframe may seem generous, the process of preparing and filing a claim can be time-consuming and intricate.
Contacting a Waldorf Car Accident Attorney Is Important
Gathering evidence, obtaining medical records, and negotiating with insurance companies — these tasks require attention to detail and legal acumen. They can be overwhelming for accident victims already dealing with physical and emotional trauma. Connecting with a skilled Waldorf car accident attorney can’t only make a significant difference but also ensure that you don’t miss the legal window to file your claim.
At the Law Office of Robert Castro, we strive to ensure that the victims of DUI accidents get the justice they deserve. Our team of seasoned attorneys will guide you through the legal maze, handling the complex aspects of your claim while you focus on your recovery. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice you deserve.
