In a split second, a routine drive home can become a life-altering event. But when a crash is caused by a drunk driver, it doesn’t feel like a typical “accident”—it feels like a betrayal of the rules we all follow to keep each other safe.
While the person behind the wheel made a reckless choice, you’re the one left answering the questions: How will I pay these bills? When can I go back to work? Why is the insurance company acting like this is my fault?
At Lloyd & Lloyd, we’ve spent over 40 years helping Oklahomans navigate these exact questions. We don’t just see a case number; we see a neighbor in Sand Springs or Tulsa whose life was upended by someone else’s negligence. Our goal is simple: to make sure that the driver’s choice doesn’t dictate the rest of your future.
1. The Police Case vs. Your Case
Many people think that if the driver gets arrested for a DUI, their bills will automatically get paid. Unfortunately, it doesn’t work that way. There are actually two separate “cases” happening:
- The Criminal Case: The city or state handles this to punish the driver with jail time or fines.
- Your Personal Injury Case: This is your private claim to get money for your medical bills, your car, and your pain. You have to start this yourself.
Even if the driver isn’t convicted in criminal court, you can still win your personal injury case. We only have to prove they were “more likely than not” responsible for your injuries.
2. Why You Shouldn’t Trust the Insurance Company’s First Offer
After a DUI crash, an insurance adjuster might call you very quickly with a check. It feels like a relief, but be careful.
- The Trap: They often offer just enough to fix your car and pay for your first ER visit.
- The Reality: They want you to sign a “release” that prevents you from ever asking for more money—even if your back pain gets worse or you need surgery six months from now.
- Our Advice: Never sign anything until a lawyer looks at it. We make sure the settlement covers your future health, not just today’s bills.
3. Extra Money for “Punishment” (Punitive Damages)
In a normal fender-bender, you usually only get money to cover your losses. But because DUI is so dangerous, Oklahoma law allows for Punitive Damages.
- This is “extra” money the driver (or their insurance) has to pay as a punishment for their behavior.
- It’s designed to make an example out of them so they—and others—don’t do it again.
4. What if the Drunk Driver Has No Insurance?
It’s a sad reality that people who drive drunk often don’t have good insurance. If they are “uninsured,” we don’t give up. We look into:
- Your Own Policy: You might have “Uninsured Motorist” coverage that pays for your injuries.
- The Bar or Restaurant: If a business kept serving a person who was clearly wasted, they might be partially responsible for the crash.
5. Three Things to Do Right Now
- See a Doctor: Even if you feel “okay,” the adrenaline from a crash can hide serious injuries like internal bleeding or whiplash.
- Keep Everything: Save every medical bill, repair receipt, and even a diary of how your pain feels each day.
- Call a Professional: Don’t try to argue with insurance lawyers by yourself.
We’re Here to Help
At Lloyd & Lloyd, we don’t charge you a penny unless we win your case. You’ve been through enough stress; let us handle the paperwork and the phone calls so you can focus on getting better.
Have questions about your accident? Call us at (918) 246-0200 for a free, friendly chat about your options. We’re located right here in Sand Springs and we’re ready to stand up for you.