Drunk driving crashes are among the most devastating—and preventable—accidents on Idaho’s roads. When someone chooses to drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they put everyone at risk. If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI-related accident, the road to recovery can be long, painful, and uncertain. That’s why having the right legal representation isn’t just helpful—it’s essential.
At Johnson & Lundgreen, we’ve seen firsthand how DUI accidents change lives. Our team has helped injured victims throughout Idaho hold negligent drivers accountable and recover compensation for their losses. Here’s why hiring an experienced Idaho personal injury lawyer makes a difference after a DUI crash.
DUI Crashes Often Involve Serious Injuries
Drunk drivers often cause high-speed or head-on collisions, leading to catastrophic injuries such as:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Spinal cord damage
- Broken bones
- Internal bleeding
- Permanent disability
- Wrongful death
These injuries require extensive medical care, long-term rehabilitation, and time away from work. Insurance companies know the stakes are high, which is why they often try to settle quickly, before the full extent of your injuries is clear. A personal injury lawyer ensures you don’t accept less than you deserve.
Civil vs. Criminal DUI Cases: What’s the Difference?
One common misconception is that if the drunk driver is arrested and charged, justice has been served. But a criminal conviction alone does not compensate you for medical bills, lost income, or emotional suffering.
A criminal DUI case is brought by the state of Idaho and focuses on punishing the offender.
A civil personal injury case—brought by you—seeks to recover financial damages for your injuries and losses.
You can pursue a civil case even if the drunk driver is acquitted in criminal court. In fact, civil cases often rely on different standards of proof, making recovery still possible even if the criminal case doesn’t result in a conviction.
Proving Liability in a DUI Crash
Establishing fault in a DUI accident may seem straightforward, but that doesn’t mean the at-fault driver (or their insurer) will take responsibility. Insurance companies may try to argue:
- You were partially at fault for the crash
- Your injuries aren’t as serious as claimed
- You had pre-existing medical conditions
A skilled Idaho personal injury lawyer will investigate the crash, gather evidence, and build a case that clearly proves the drunk driver’s liability. This may include:
- Police reports and BAC test results
- Witness statements
- Surveillance or dashcam footage
- Accident reconstruction expert analysis
- Medical documentation of your injuries
Maximizing Your Compensation
Victims of DUI crashes in Idaho may be entitled to compensation for:
- Emergency medical care
- Ongoing treatment or rehabilitation
- Lost wages and future earning potential
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Emotional distress
- Wrongful death (if a loved one was killed)
In some cases, Idaho courts may also award punitive damages—a financial penalty meant to punish especially reckless behavior, like drunk driving. These damages are not always awarded in standard accident cases, but they’re more likely in DUI-related crashes. Your attorney will know how to pursue them if appropriate.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Even when fault is obvious, insurance companies often make the process difficult. They may delay your claim, downplay your injuries, or pressure you to accept a lowball settlement. Without legal guidance, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed or taken advantage of.
At Johnson & Lundgreen, we deal with the insurance company so you don’t have to. We handle all communication, negotiate aggressively on your behalf, and won’t hesitate to take your case to trial if necessary. Our goal is straightforward: to secure the compensation you need to move forward.
Protecting Your Rights and Meeting Deadlines
Idaho law generally gives you two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. But the sooner you take action, the better. Evidence can disappear, memories fade, and insurers gain the upper hand the longer you wait.
When you hire a personal injury lawyer early, you give your case the best possible chance for success. At Johnson & Lundgreen, we begin investigating right away, preserving evidence and strengthening your claim from day one.
We’re Here to Help You Reclaim Your Life
A DUI crash can upend your life in seconds. From medical bills to emotional trauma, the aftermath can feel overwhelming. You don’t have to go through it alone. At Johnson & Lundgreen, we’ve helped injury victims across Idaho take control of their futures after devastating crashes. Our firm combines decades of experience with a personal, client-focused approach.
We’ll listen to your story, explain your rights, and fight for the justice you deserve. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.