A drunk driving crash can change your life in seconds. If you or someone you love was injured by an impaired driver in Tempe, you deserve more than just sympathy — you deserve justice. Working with a skilled drunk driving accident lawyer gives you the best chance of holding the at-fault driver fully accountable.
At Valley Injury Law, we understand exactly how insurance companies think. Our founding attorney, Travis Meltzer, spent years on the insurance defense side before switching to represent injured people. That insider experience is a powerful advantage for every client we serve.
Therefore, if you were hurt by a drunk driver in Tempe, Mesa, Chandler, or anywhere in the Greater Phoenix area, this guide will help you understand your rights and your options.
Why Drunk Driving Accidents Are Especially Serious
Drunk driving crashes are not ordinary accidents. They involve a driver who made a dangerous, reckless choice. Because of this, the injuries are often severe and the legal claims are more complex than a typical fender-bender.
Impaired drivers frequently run red lights, travel the wrong way, or fail to brake entirely. As a result, victims often suffer catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, broken bones, and internal trauma.
Furthermore, drunk driving accidents can open the door to punitive damages — compensation beyond medical bills and lost wages. These damages are designed to punish especially reckless behavior. Not every case qualifies, but an experienced lawyer can evaluate whether yours does.
The Difference Between a Civil and Criminal Case
Many victims wonder what happens after the police arrest a drunk driver. The criminal case and your civil injury claim are separate processes. The criminal case is handled by the state and focuses on punishing the driver.
However, your civil claim is about compensating you for your losses. You can pursue a civil claim even if the driver is not convicted. Additionally, a conviction can actually strengthen your civil case significantly.
What a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Does for You
Hiring a lawyer after a DUI crash is about more than just filing paperwork. A qualified attorney builds a strong case from the ground up, so you do not have to face the insurance company alone.
Here is what a drunk driving accident lawyer typically handles on your behalf:
- Investigating the crash — gathering police reports, DUI arrest records, and witness statements
- Documenting your injuries — working with medical providers to build a full picture of your damages
- Communicating with insurers — handling all contact so adjusters cannot pressure or mislead you
- Calculating your losses — including medical bills, future care needs, lost income, and pain and suffering
- Negotiating a fair settlement — pushing back when insurance companies lowball your claim
- Taking your case to trial — if the insurer refuses to offer fair compensation
Moreover, our team at Valley Injury Law works on a contingency basis. That means you pay nothing unless we recover money for you. There is no financial risk in reaching out.
How Insurance Companies Handle DUI Accident Claims
You might think that an insurance company will automatically pay a fair amount when their insured was drunk. Unfortunately, that is rarely how it works. Insurers still look for ways to minimize your payout.
For example, they may argue that your injuries are not as severe as claimed. They might also question whether a pre-existing condition caused your pain instead of the crash. Because of this, having a lawyer who knows their tactics is essential.
Travis Meltzer spent years on the insurance defense side. He knows the playbook they use, and he uses that knowledge to protect our clients every step of the way.
Compensation You May Be Entitled to Recover
After a drunk driving accident, you may be entitled to a wide range of compensation. The exact value of your claim depends on the facts of your case, the severity of your injuries, and the insurance coverage available.
Generally speaking, victims of drunk driving crashes in Tempe and the greater Phoenix area may pursue compensation for:
- Emergency medical care and hospitalization
- Ongoing treatment, physical therapy, and rehabilitation
- Future medical expenses related to the injury
- Lost wages while you recover
- Reduced earning capacity if you cannot return to your previous work
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Property damage to your vehicle
- Punitive damages in appropriate cases
Additionally, if a loved one was killed by a drunk driver, surviving family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. This can include funeral costs, loss of companionship, and financial support the deceased would have provided.
Does the At-Fault Driver’s Policy Cover Everything?
Sometimes the drunk driver does not carry enough insurance to cover the full extent of your injuries. In that situation, your own uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may help bridge the gap.
Furthermore, in some cases, a third party may share liability. For example, if the driver was overserved at a bar or restaurant in Tempe or Scottsdale, Arizona’s dram shop laws may allow a claim against that establishment. An experienced attorney can identify every available source of recovery.
Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Crash in Tempe
The actions you take after a DUI accident can directly affect your claim. First, always call 911 so police can document the scene and administer sobriety tests. Then, seek medical attention immediately — even if you feel okay.
Next, gather as much information as possible at the scene. This includes photos, witness contact information, and the other driver’s insurance details. Also, keep all medical records and receipts related to your treatment.
Finally, contact a drunk driving accident lawyer before speaking with any insurance adjuster. Adjusters work for the insurer — not for you. Anything you say can be used to reduce your claim.
Do Not Wait Too Long to Act
Arizona law sets a deadline for filing personal injury claims. Missing this deadline can permanently bar you from recovering compensation. Therefore, it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after your accident.
At Valley Injury Law, we offer free case reviews with no obligation. You can contact Valley Injury Law today to get started and learn exactly where you stand.
Why Choose Valley Injury Law for Your Tempe DUI Accident Case
There are many personal injury firms in the Phoenix area. However, not every firm brings the same level of insider knowledge to the table. Valley Injury Law was built on a unique foundation — our lead attorney defended insurance companies first.
That experience means we know how insurers evaluate claims, where they look for weaknesses, and how to counter their strategies. We use that knowledge every day to fight for injured people in Tempe, Gilbert, Mesa, Phoenix, and throughout Arizona.
Additionally, we provide personalized attention to every client. You will not be passed off to a case manager and forgotten. Our team stays engaged from the first call through the resolution of your case.
We Handle the Full Range of Accident Cases
In addition to drunk driving accidents, Valley Injury Law handles car accidents, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents, bicycle and pedestrian accidents, rideshare crashes, slip and falls, dog bites, and wrongful death claims.
Moreover, we serve clients across Arizona, as well as in Nevada, Utah, Washington, and New Mexico. No matter where you are, we are ready to help.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drunk Driving Accident Claims
Can I file a claim even if the drunk driver was not convicted?
Yes. Your civil claim is separate from the criminal case. The standard of proof in civil court is lower than in criminal court. Therefore, a failed criminal prosecution does not prevent you from recovering compensation.
How long does a drunk driving accident claim take to resolve?
Every case is different. Some claims settle in a few months, while others take longer if litigation is required. However, rushing a settlement often means leaving money on the table. We work to reach the best outcome, not just the fastest one.
What if I was partially at fault for the crash?
Arizona follows a comparative fault rule. This means you can still recover compensation even if you share some responsibility. However, your recovery may be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault. An attorney can help you understand how this applies to your specific situation.
What does it cost to hire Valley Injury Law?
We work on a contingency fee basis. You pay nothing upfront and nothing out of pocket. We only get paid when we recover compensation for you. There is no financial risk in calling us.
What should I say to the insurance adjuster after a DUI crash?
Keep it brief. You are not required to give a recorded statement to the other driver’s insurer. In fact, doing so can hurt your claim. Contact our team before engaging with any adjuster so we can protect your rights from the start.
Contact Valley Injury Law After a Drunk Driving Accident in Tempe
Being hurt by a drunk driver is a traumatic experience. You should not have to fight the insurance company alone while you are trying to heal. Valley Injury Law is here to handle the legal fight so you can focus on your recovery.
Our team serves injured people across Tempe, Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Scottsdale, and throughout the Greater Phoenix area. We bring insider insurance knowledge, personalized service, and relentless advocacy to every case we take.
You pay nothing unless we win. Reach out today to schedule your free case review and find out what your claim may be worth.