Chincoteague Drunk Driver Accident Attorney

Chincoteague is a place people come to relax, especially during the summer and around Pony Penning. That also means more traffic, more visitors, and more celebrations on and around the island. When a driver chooses to drink and drive, the results can be devastating. If you were hurt by an impaired driver in Chincoteague, Williams DeLoatche, P.C. can help you pursue compensation.

One Road On, One Road Off

Chincoteague Road, Route 175, connects the island to U.S. Route 13, including the 4.3-mile John B. Whealton Memorial Causeway. With limited ways on and off the island, one impaired driver can seriously injure others and leave traffic stopped for hours. A crash far from home can also mean dealing with unfamiliar hospitals, insurance companies, and courts.

Help for Island Residents and Visitors

We represent people who live on Chincoteague and visitors who were hurt while on vacation. If you have already gone home, you may still have a claim. We can explain your options and handle much of the process for you.

Building a Drunk Driving Injury Case

Our attorneys work to:

• Secure the police report and any BAC or refusal evidence
• Locate witnesses before they leave the area
• Look for video that shows the driver or the crash
• Document your injuries and financial losses
• Negotiate with insurers and file suit if needed

The Law Behind Your Claim

Under Virginia Code § 18.2-266, a driver can be charged with DUI for having a BAC of 0.08% or more, or for being impaired by alcohol or drugs. A conviction can be useful evidence, but your civil case does not depend on a guilty verdict.

Virginia also permits punitive damages in some cases. Virginia Code § 8.01-44.5 applies to certain cases involving a BAC of 0.15% or more, along with other requirements, and certain unreasonable test refusals.

Injuries That Change Lives

• Traumatic brain injury
• Spinal cord damage
• Broken bones
• Internal injuries
• PTSD and anxiety

Insurance and Responsibility

The impaired driver is usually responsible for the crash. Depending on the facts, an employer or a vehicle owner may also share responsibility. Virginia does not have a dram shop law, so bars are generally not liable just for serving alcohol. If the driver’s coverage is too low, your uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage may help.

What You May Be Able to Recover

• Medical expenses
• Lost income
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Punitive damages, when allowed
• Wrongful death damages

How Long You Have

Most personal injury claims must be filed within two years under Virginia Code § 8.01-243. Wrongful death claims generally must be filed within two years of the death under § 8.01-244.

Why Williams DeLoatche, P.C.

We have served Virginians for more than a century and maintain an Eastern Shore office in Keller. Our consultations are free, and you pay no attorney’s fee unless we recover compensation for you.

If You Were Visiting the Island

Many people hurt on Chincoteague came to enjoy the beaches, the ponies, or a summer festival. After a crash, they may return home before they know how serious their injuries are. You can still pursue a claim after you leave. Keep your medical records, travel receipts, and photos, and let us know about any treatment you receive at home. We can handle much of the case remotely.

When Coverage Is Not Enough

An impaired driver may carry only minimum insurance. If your injuries are serious, that policy may not cover all of your losses. Underinsured motorist coverage on your own policy may help fill the gap. Families may also need to consider a wrongful death claim if a loved one was killed. We look for every available source of compensation.

Talk to a Chincoteague Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Call 757-787-8900 or contact us online. You can also visit us at 18249 First Street, Keller, VA 23401.