Defense Against A Drunk Driving Auto Accident
Posted on: 29 October 2019
One of the most dangerous driving offenses to commit is to get behind the wheel of a car when you have consumed numerous alcoholic beverages. The crime becomes even worse when an accident is caused due to being in an incompetent state of mind, and the people in the other vehicle get injured. However, just because someone has made the mistake of driving drunk and getting into a collision doesn't mean that he or she is actually liable for it. If you were accused of causing an accident simply because you were drunk when the incident occurred, it might be possible to prove that you are not guilty of the crime. Due to you actually being guilty of driving drunk, it is in your best interest to hire a drunk driving attorney to prove that you didn't cause the collision.
Finding Out What You Will Pay for Legal Help
Once you have decided that seeking justice is what you want to do, find out if legal assistance is something that you can afford. A consultation with an attorney is your first step, as this is when you will find out what you can expect to pay in legal fees. It is wise to speak to the attorney about the various payment methods that he or she is willing to accept. For instance, you can possibly be charged a flat rate, contingency fee, or simply make a down payment upfront. The rate will likely be based on the complexity of your case, such as the amount of work that must be performed by the attorney.
Admitting to the Mistake of Driving Drunk
Don't be afraid to admit that you were driving drunk, as your honesty can actually be helpful to your case. Your attorney will be able to use your admission to create a plea deal that might land you a sentence that isn't as strict as it could be. For example, rather than going to jail for driving drunk, you might be given a deferred sentence that allows you to serve your sentence while keeping your freedom. A deferred sentence might require you to undergo rehab, spend time on probation, and keep a clean record until your case is reviewed in court on a specific date. Sometimes a deferred sentence includes performing community service.
Proving That the Other Party Caused the Collision
Proving that you didn't cause the accident can be complicated, especially because you were under the influence of alcohol. However, an attorney can dig deep into the situation by investigating the accident scene and finding evidence. He or she might find video footage or witnesses, or might even get a confession from someone who was in the vehicle with the driver.
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