Bloomington Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Support When A Drunk Driver Changes Your Life
If a drunk driver has turned your life upside down in Bloomington, you may be dealing with painful injuries, a totaled car, and calls from insurance adjusters while you are still in shock. You should not have to carry that burden alone. At Haxel Law, we help people hurt in preventable crashes caused by impaired drivers, and we work to take the legal and insurance pressure off your shoulders.
Attorney Martin Haxel has spent more than four decades handling serious injury cases in Illinois and Missouri. Our firm combines that experience with an insider’s understanding of how insurance companies try to minimize drunk driving claims. We are based in Central Illinois, and we are committed to guiding you through every step with straightforward advice and personal attention.
Call (217) 215-4166 now to schedule your free consultation.
Illinois Drunk Driving Laws
Illinois has strict laws in place to deter impaired driving and protect the public. A driver is considered legally intoxicated in Illinois if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. Commercial drivers face a lower limit of 0.04%, and drivers under the age of 21 can be charged with DUI if any measurable alcohol is present in their system.
In addition to alcohol-related offenses, Illinois law also prohibits driving under the influence of drugs, including illegal substances, prescription medications, and cannabis if impairment is present.
A DUI conviction can result in serious penalties, including:
- License suspension or revocation
- Fines and court fees
- Mandatory alcohol education programs
- Jail time for repeat or severe offenses
While criminal charges are handled by the state, victims of drunk driving accidents have the right to pursue civil claims for compensation. A Bloomington drunk driving accident lawyer can help you navigate this process and ensure your voice is heard.
How Alcohol Impairs Your Ability to Drive
Alcohol affects the brain and body in ways that make driving extremely dangerous. Even small amounts can impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time.
Common ways alcohol impacts driving ability include:
- Slowed reaction times
- Poor decision-making
- Reduced concentration and focus
- Blurred or impaired vision
- Decreased motor control and coordination
Impaired drivers are more likely to speed, ignore traffic signals, drift between lanes, and misjudge distances. These behaviors dramatically increase the risk of collisions, often leading to severe injuries or fatalities.
How to Prove Liability Against a Drunk Driver
To recover compensation after a drunk driving crash, victims must establish liability. This typically involves proving that the impaired driver’s negligence caused the accident and resulting injuries.
Evidence used in drunk driving accident cases may include:
- Police accident reports
- Breathalyzer or blood test results
- Witness statements
- Surveillance or dashcam footage
- Accident reconstruction analysis
- Medical records documenting injuries
Even if a driver is not convicted of DUI in criminal court, they may still be held liable in civil court. The burden of proof in a personal injury case is lower than in a criminal case, meaning you may still have a strong claim.
An experienced attorney will gather evidence, work with experts, and build a compelling case to demonstrate the full extent of your losses.
Dram Shop & Social Host Liability in IL
In some situations, liability may extend beyond the impaired driver. Illinois has a Dram Shop Act that allows victims to seek compensation from bars, restaurants, or other establishments that served alcohol to an intoxicated individual who later caused a crash.
Under the Dram Shop Act, a business may be held responsible if:
- It sold or provided alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person, and
- That individual caused injury or damage as a result of their intoxication
Illinois law also recognizes limited forms of social host liability, particularly when alcohol is provided to minors. If a private individual knowingly provides alcohol to someone under 21 who later causes a drunk driving accident, they may share responsibility for resulting damages.
These claims can be complex and require careful legal analysis. A Bloomington drunk driving accident lawyer can determine whether additional parties may be liable in your case.
Compensation Available After a Drunk Driving Accident
Victims of drunk driving crashes may be entitled to significant compensation for their losses. Depending on the circumstances, damages may include:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Rehabilitation and therapy costs
- Property damage
- Wrongful death damages for surviving family members
In cases involving extreme negligence, courts may also award punitive damages intended to punish the at-fault driver and deter similar behavior.
Why Choose Haxel Law After A Drunk Driving Crash
When a drunk driver causes a serious collision, you need more than a generic personal injury firm. You need a team that understands how insurers evaluate these claims, how to prove fault, and how to present the full impact of your injuries. At Haxel Law, we bring a combination of trial experience, insurance insight, and community commitment to every drunk driving case we handle.
Attorney Haxel has more than 40 years of experience in personal injury and workers’ compensation law, including years spent representing insurance companies on these types of cases. That background gives us a clear view of the angles adjusters use, from low opening offers to efforts to blame victims or discount medical treatment. We use that knowledge to prepare claims that anticipate these tactics and respond with strong evidence.
Over the years, we have handled more than 100 trials and appeals and have recovered millions of dollars for injured clients. Our results include a $1.3 million recovery for a motorcyclist and repeated policy limit settlements for crash victims, along with significant wins for injured workers and first responders. Each situation is different, but this history shows that we do the work required to pursue meaningful results, even in difficult circumstances.
To get started on your claim, contact our team today.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How Much Is My PI Claim Worth?
Determining the value of your claim can be complex. It can be easy to overlook many types of compensation available to you, especially without an in-depth understanding of Illinois law. Seeking legal representation is essential to identify liable parties and calculate the total damages in your claim.
While pinpointing the exact value of your claim requires a thorough case evaluation from our attorneys, you should know that you are entitled to compensation for all losses incurred in the accident, including future costs resulting from your injuries. Our firm can negotiate effectively on your behalf to pursue the full compensation available to you.
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How Long Will It Take to Resolve My Claim?
It depends. The timeframe for settling a personal injury claim will vary based on unique factors, such as whether the insurance company is willing to make a fair offer, any potential liability disputes, and whether your case goes to trial. Many claims are settled out of court, but others can take more time to resolve. However, taking longer to settle isn’t necessarily a bad thing.
While preparing for potential litigation may extend the duration of your case, it can also mean the difference between recovering maximum compensation and walking away with much less than you deserve. Our attorneys are familiar with insurance companies to pursue the fastest path to resolution without compromising the just settlement you need to focus on your recovery.
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Should I Talk to the Insurance Adjuster?After an accident, you should avoid discussing the incident with any insurance representative without your lawyer present. Having your attorney speak directly with the insurance adjuster on your behalf is typically best to protect your rights. If you do end up talking with the insurance adjuster, you only need to provide basic information, such as your name, address, and so on. Don’t share any information that may be used against you, such as apologizing or admitting fault.
Ready to Help You
At Haxel Law, we are committed to providing compassionate, results-driven legal representation. We understand the emotional and financial challenges that follow a serious accident, and we are here to guide you every step of the way.
When you work with our firm, we will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation of your case
- Handle all communication with insurance companies
- Identify all liable parties
- Calculate the full value of your damages
- Negotiate aggressively for a fair settlement
- Take your case to trial if necessary
Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
Drunk Driving Accident FAQs
What should I do after a drunk driving accident in Bloomington?
Seek medical attention immediately, report the accident to law enforcement, document the scene if possible, and contact an attorney as soon as you can. Early legal guidance can protect your rights and strengthen your claim.
How long do I have to file a claim in Illinois?
Illinois generally allows two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, exceptions may apply, so it’s important to speak with an attorney promptly.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. Illinois follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You may recover damages as long as you are less than 50% responsible for the accident, though your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What if the drunk driver was uninsured?
You may still be able to recover compensation through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage or by pursuing other liable parties, such as a bar or establishment under the Dram Shop Act.
How much is my case worth?
The value of your claim depends on factors such as injury severity, medical costs, lost income, and long-term effects on your life. An attorney can evaluate your case and provide a clearer estimate.
Hear From Our Happy Clients
At Haxel Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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"I will definitely use Haxel Law again!"I’m so grateful for the legal assistance I received from Haxel Law. Martin is extremely knowledgeable and guided me throughout the process. I recommend Martin Haxel. He’s no nonsense and gets the job done. If needed I will definitely use Haxel Law again.- Sally B.
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"Thank you, Martin."When I got injured, I knew I was going to be out of work. I knew I was going to be struggling with my family. I was really worried about the direction my life had turned towards. If I hadn't contacted Martin Haxel. I would still be fighting to get what I deserved. What was owed to me. Mr. Haxel however, stayed with me. He told me the truth. He didn't lie, or manipulate anything. He was honest and informative. He was the hope I didn't have at that time. He struggled with me to get all of it resolved. He did it with integrity, honesty, and a sincere understanding of what I was going through. To anyone considering having Mr. Haxel represent them in similar situations...I would say, you couldn't pick a better person. He's a great lawyer. He does great work. He's a nice person with a lot of experience in this field. If there's anyone you can turn to when no one will listen or even attempt to help you do what is right...Mr. Haxel is the one. I can't say enough good things about him. Now that my case is settled thanks to his work, I'm going to miss having someone having my back. He's a good man and I hope he feels good about what he's done when he lays down to sleep and reflects on his days, weeks, months, and years. People like him, give people hope, and faith that there are good people still roaming around this crazy thing called life. Martin, thank you. You're a beast.- Chris Y.
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"Highly Recommend"Attorney Martin Haxel fought long and hard for a fair and just settlement. I recommend Haxel Law for your Work Comp case.- Karyn S.
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"No One Better"I was referred to Martin by my original attorney. My original attorney didn't want to spend the time and money to represent me because my case was going to be difficult, time-consuming, and against the City of Champaign. I am so glad that Martin was willing to take my case and see it through. If you have a "hidden injury" like me or even an obvious injury Martin will handle it very professionally and give it the attention that you deserve.- John M.
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"What a great experience!"I strongly recommend Haxel Law Firm to everyone. In fact, he has now taken on my fiance as a client. Thanks Marty for what you did for me!- David S.
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"Made Everything Easy for Me"His assistant was very pleasant and helpful as well. If he wasn't available when I called and left a message he was always prompt to respond to my messages and emails. I would highly recommend him to anyone who can use his skills!- David N.
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"Martin Truly Cares About You"I had a life-changing experience 4 years ago. Mr Haxel continually worked with the insurance company to settle the workman comp claim. Mr. Haxel was always available to call if you had any concerns and was always willing to listen to you.- Marvin S.
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"Marty was great to work with!"He kept in communication and made the process as stress-free as possible. Hopefully I never need a personal injury attorney again, but if I do, I wouldn't hesitate to hire Marty.- Kristi D.
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"Very Positive Experience Representing My Daughter"Very responsive and patient answering all my questions. I hope to never be in a situation of needing a lawyer again, but if I did, I would 100% contact Martin again.- Jim P.