Fighting for Victims of DUI Accidents in Central Virginia

Drunk driving is one of the most reckless and preventable causes of car wrecks. When an intoxicated driver chooses to get behind the wheel, they put innocent lives at risk. If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI-related crash, you have the right to hold them accountable and seek maximum compensation for your losses.

At Overbey, Hawkins, Wright & Vance, PLLC, we have been protecting victims of drunk driving accidents in Lynchburg and throughout Central Virginia for decades. We are here to fight for your rights, secure the compensation you need, and help you move forward.

Call Now for a free consultation | no fees unless we win

Virginia Drunk Driving Laws & Your Legal Rights

In Virginia, driving under the influence (DUI) is a crime, and when a drunk driver causes an accident, they can be held both criminally and civilly liable.

Virginia’s DUI Legal Limits:

  • Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) ≥ 0.08% for the average of-age driver
  • BAC ≥ 0.04% for commercial truck drivers
  • Any detectable BAC for drivers under 21

If a drunk driver caused your accident, you may be entitled to compensation beyond typical car accident claims, including punitive damages to punish the at-fault driver for reckless behavior.

How Our Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys Can Help

At Overbey, Hawkins, Wright & Vance, PLLC, we understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll a DUI crash can cause. Here’s how we help:
Navigating Criminal Investigation
Navigating Criminal Investigation

Reviewing police reports, breathalyzer results, and witness statements

Proving Negligence
Proving Negligence

Establishing the drunk driver’s liability through comprehensive investigation

Handling All Insurance Negotiations
Handling All Insurance Negotiations

Preventing the insurance company from offering a lowball settlement

Pursuing Full Compensation
Pursuing Full Compensation

Seeking damages for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages

Taking Your Case to Trial if Necessary
Taking Your Case to Trial if Necessary

If the insurance company won’t pay what you deserve, we will fight for you in court

Drunk drivers must be held accountable for the harm they caused. Let us fight for the civil justice you deserve.

Serving Lynchburg & Central Virginia

We proudly represent DUI accident victims in Lynchburg, Campbell County, Amherst, Bedford, Appomattox, and surrounding areas. As a law firm deeply committed to our community, we believe drunk drivers must be held fully responsible for their actions.

Call Now

What Compensation Can You Recover After a Drunk Driving Accident?

If you or a loved one was hit by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical expenses – Emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, and rehab.
  • Lost wages – Compensation for missed work and reduced future earning potential.
  • Pain and suffering – Emotional trauma, PTSD, and the long-term impact of the crash.
  • Property damage – Repairs or replacement of your vehicle.
  • Punitive damages – Additional compensation meant to punish the drunk driver and deter future reckless behavior.

Unlike standard car accident cases, Virginia law allows victims of DUI crashes to pursue punitive damages, which can significantly increase the value of your claim.

What to Do If You’re Hit by a Drunk Driver

After a DUI-related accident, taking the right steps can strengthen your case:

  1. Call 911 – If you suspect substance use was a part of your car accident, it is imperative that you contact the authorities. Call 911 to ensure the police document the DUI.
  2. Get a copy of the police report – This will contain vital details about the DUI arrest.
  3. Preserve evidence – Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and vehicle damage.
  4. Get witness information – Eyewitness statements can strengthen your case.
  5. Avoid talking to the drunk driver’s insurance company alone – They may try to minimize your compensation.
  6. Contact a DUI accident attorney as soon as possible – The sooner we start working on your case, the better.

Call Now – Let Us Hold Drunk Drivers Accountable

A drunk driver’s reckless choices shouldn’t ruin your future. Overbey, Hawkins, Wright & Vance, PLLC fights for DUI accident victims and their families to secure the compensation and justice they deserve.

Call (800) 201-9987 for a Free Consultation

No Fees Unless We Win No Fees Unless We Win
Decades of Experience Decades of Experience
Millions Recovered for Clients Millions Recovered for Clients

Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Accident Claims

Who can be held accountable in a drunk driving accident?

The intoxicated driver is the primary responsible party, but other entities may also be liable, such as:

  • Bars or restaurants that overserved the driver (Dram Shop Liability)
  • Employers (if the DUI driver was on duty)
  • Vehicle owners (if they knowingly allowed an intoxicated person to drive their car)
What’s the difference between a criminal DUI case and a civil DUI case?

A criminal DUI case is prosecuted by the state and focuses on punishing the drunk driver for breaking the law. If convicted, the driver may face jail time, fines, license suspension, and other criminal penalties. However, a criminal conviction does not compensate the victim for their injuries, medical bills, or suffering.

A civil DUI case, on the other hand, is a lawsuit filed by the injured party (or their family) to recover financial compensation for damages caused by the drunk driver. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and punitive damages meant to punish the driver for their reckless behavior.

Can I file a claim if the drunk driver was not convicted?

Yes. Even if the driver avoids a DUI conviction in criminal court, you can still pursue a civil lawsuit for damages.

Will my case go to trial?

Many DUI civil claims settle out of court, but if the insurance company refuses to offer fair compensation, we are fully prepared to take your case to trial.

How long do I have to file a DUI accident claim?

Virginia law gives you two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim. However, acting quickly helps preserve evidence and strengthens your case.

Contact Us Today

For Your Free Consultation
We're here to help