When a driver chooses to get behind the wheel while intoxicated in Las Vegas, they aren’t just being negligent—they are making a reckless decision that endangers everyone on the road. Whether the crash happened on the Las Vegas Strip, in a Summerlin intersection, or on the I-15, the physical and emotional devastation is immediate.
At Temple Injury Law, we believe drunk drivers must be held fully accountable. Unlike standard car accidents, DUI cases in Nevada often allow victims to seek Punitive Damages—money awarded specifically to punish the wrongdoer.
We don’t just fight for your medical bills; we fight to ensure justice is served.
Why Hire Temple Injury Law for a DUI Accident Case?
Insurance companies often try to settle DUI claims quickly before you realize the full extent of your rights. You need a team that knows the specific tactics to maximize your recovery.
Dual-Track Strategy: We monitor the criminal case against the driver in Clark County District Court to gather evidence (like body cam footage and BAC results) that strengthens your civil claim.
We seek the maximum: Including economic, non-economic, and punitive damages.
No Win, No Fee: You pay $0 upfront. We only get paid if we win your case.
Let our accident attorneys give you a free consultation. Our offices are located in Las Vegas at:
Central Office: 1300 S. Decatur Blvd. Las Vegas, NV 89102
Southwest Office: 8085 Blue Diamond Road, Unit 103, Las Vegas, NV 89178
Can I Sue the Bar or Casino? (Nevada Dram Shop Law)
A common question we get is: “The driver was over-served at a casino on the Strip. Can I sue the casino?”
It is important to understand Nevada’s Dram Shop Law (NRS 41.1305).
- General Rule: unlike many other states, Nevada does not generally allow you to sue a bar, hotel, or social host for serving alcohol to an adult who later causes a crash. The law places the liability solely on the driver.
- The Exception: You can sue an establishment if they knowingly served alcohol to a minor (under 21) or if the person serving the alcohol forced the consumption.
Because these laws are complex, you need an attorney who can investigate exactly where the driver was drinking to see if any exceptions apply.
Understanding Damages: What Is Your Case Worth?
In a Las Vegas DUI case, compensation goes beyond just fixing your car. We fight for three categories of damages:
1. Economic Damages
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Medical bills (ER, surgery, physical therapy).
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Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity.
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Property damage.
2. Non-Economic Damages
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Pain and suffering.
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Emotional distress (PTSD is common after violent crashes).
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Loss of enjoyment of life.
3. Punitive Damages (NRS 42.005)
This is the “X-factor” in drunk driving cases. Nevada law allows a jury to award additional money if the defendant acted with “oppression, fraud, or malice.” Driving under the influence acts as a conscious disregard for the safety of others, often qualifying for these additional damages to punish the driver.
Nevada Drunk Driving Accident Statistics
Nevada has one of the highest drunk driving accident rates in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, every 45 minutes, an innocent person in America loses their life due to a drunk driving accident. Unfortunately, this number has only grown from 2019 to 2020; 11,654 people died because of alcohol-impaired driving – a 14% increase. These tragedies could have been avoided if the drunk drivers had taken more responsibility for themselves and others on the road.
Types of Compensation Available in Las Vegas DUI Accident Cases
Victims of drunk driving accidents in Nevada may be entitled to several types of damages:
Economic Damages:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage to your vehicle and personal belongings
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Specialized equipment needs (wheelchairs, prosthetics)
Non-Economic Damages:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and trauma
- Loss of consortium for family members
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
Punitive Damages: Unlike regular car accidents, drunk driving cases may qualify for punitive damages in Nevada. These are awarded to punish the drunk driver for their reckless decision to drive while impaired and to deter similar behavior in the future.
Common Injuries in Las Vegas Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving accidents often result in severe injuries due to the unpredictable nature of impaired driving. Common injuries our Las Vegas drunk driving accident attorneys see include:
- Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Broken bones and fractures
- Internal organ damage and internal bleeding
- Severe lacerations and scarring
- Burn injuries from vehicle fires
- Amputations
- Psychological trauma and PTSD
Recovery from these injuries can take months or years, and some victims never fully recover. That’s why it’s crucial to work with experienced Las Vegas DUI accident lawyers who understand the long-term impact of these injuries.
Effects of Drunk Driving
Drunk driving is a serious offense that can have long-lasting, devastating consequences.
- Increased chances of getting into a car accident
- Increased chances of being in a fatal car accident
- Can lead to financial hardship
- Jail time and fines
- License suspension or revocation
- Higher insurance rates
How Criminal Charges Affect Your Civil Case
Many clients ask our Las Vegas drunk driving accident attorneys about the relationship between criminal DUI charges and their personal injury claim. Here’s what you need to know:
Separate Legal Processes: The drunk driver’s criminal case is handled by the District Attorney’s office, while your personal injury claim is a separate civil matter handled by your attorney.
Criminal Conviction Helps Your Case: If the drunk driver is convicted of DUI, this conviction can be used as evidence in your civil case to prove negligence and liability.
Don’t Wait for Criminal Case: You don’t need to wait for the criminal case to conclude before filing your personal injury claim. Our Las Vegas DUI accident lawyers can begin building your case immediately.
How to Prevent Drunk Driving
There are many things we can do to prevent drunk driving accidents from happening in the first place. Here are some tips:
- Have a plan before going out.
- Designate a driver or take taxis/UBER/LYFT home.
- Avoid drinking on an empty stomach.
- Keep track of how much you’ve had to drink by counting drinks or using an alcohol tracking app.
- Know your limits and stop drinking when you reach them.
- Drink water or other non-alcoholic beverages in between alcoholic drinks
A drunk driving crash can leave victims with serious injuries that require expensive medical treatment. In addition, you may be unable to work while you recover, resulting in lost wages. An attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve for your losses.
Dealing with Insurance Companies After a DUI Accident
Insurance companies often try to settle drunk driving accident claims quickly and for less than they’re worth. Here’s what you should know:
Don’t Accept the First Offer: Insurance companies typically offer settlements that are far below the true value of your claim.
Avoid Recorded Statements: Never give a recorded statement to the at-fault driver’s insurance company without your attorney present.
Beware of Surveillance: Some insurance companies hire private investigators to monitor accident victims and look for evidence to minimize claims.
Work with Experienced Las Vegas DUI Accident Lawyers: Our attorneys have handled hundreds of drunk driving cases and know the tactics insurance companies use.
Jeff Temple
Personal Injury Lawyer
Call Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys in Las Vegas For Legal Help
Discussing your legal rights with a drunk driving accident lawyer at Temple Injury Law is easy. We offer free initial consultations. It costs you nothing to find out if you have a personal injury claim.
At Temple Injury Law in Las Vegas, we have decades of experience representing accident victims of drunk driving accidents. Our team is dedicated to helping you get the financial support you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages related to your DUI accident claim.
We understand what you are going through after a drunk driving accident and will fight aggressively to help you get justice.
Free Case Evaluation: Call us today at (702) 487-4999 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation with our experienced Las Vegas drunk driving accident attorneys.
Remember: Nevada has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims. Don’t wait – contact our Las Vegas DUI accident lawyers today to protect your rights and begin building your case for maximum compensation.