Reno Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

For the past decade, impaired drivers have caused more traffic deaths in Nevada than any other type of driver error. Between 2015 and 2019, more deaths resulted from intoxicated driving than from speeding and distracted driving combined, according to the 2021 Nevada Traffic Safety Crash Facts report.

The Biggest Little City in the World is populated with a wealth of attractions that encourage locals and visitors alike to kick back and have a good time. But sadly, not everyone enjoys what Reno has to offer responsibly. Washoe County consistently has the second-highest number of drunk driving accidents of any county in Nevada.

But a drunk driving accident is never an accident.

It is the terrible consequence of a decision to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

If you were injured or experienced the tragic loss of a loved one due to the actions of an impaired driver, contact a Reno drunk driving accident lawyer from the Law Office of Matthew L. Sharp. We provide free consultations to injured survivors and families of drunk driving collisions in Reno, Washoe County, and throughout Nevada.

The Dangers of Driving Under the Influence

The effects of alcohol on driving are well documented.

We’ve all heard the slogans most of our lives: “Friends don’t let friends drive drunk.” “Stay alive, don’t drink and drive.” “Buzzed driving is drunk driving.” “A designated driver is the life of the party.”

In today’s society, no one drives drunk without an awareness of the risks. Every single Reno drunk driving accident is the result of someone’s choice to disregard the safety of others.

Just a few of the effects of alcohol that impact safe driving include:

• Blurred vision
• Decreased coordination
• Loss of focus
• Falling asleep at the wheel
• Impaired judgment
• Miscalculated distances
• Slowed reaction times

Additionally, those who drive under the influence of drugs (prescription or illicit) may experience impairing effects such as:

• Hallucinations
• Erratic behavior
• Diminished decision-making skills
• Heightened risk-taking
• Lowered coordination
• Anxiety and paranoia

Penalties for Drunk Driving in Nevada

Nevada state law imposes strict penalties on those found guilty of driving over the legal limit. Penalties increase with each offense and begin with penalties that include:

• Criminal arrest
• Fines of $400 to $1,000
• Vehicle impounding
• Two days to six months in jail
• Community service
• License revocation
• Installation of ignition interlock in vehicle
• Other fees for tests, exams, and license reinstatement

How the Law Protects Drunk Driving Accident Victims

It is a criminal offense to drive drunk in Nevada. “Drunk” is considered by law to be:

• Blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08
• BAC of .04 for commercial drivers
• BAC of .02 for drivers under 21

The state of Nevada also sets legal limits for drugs considered to be “prohibited substances,” including:

• Marijuana
• Amphetamine
• Cocaine
• Heroin
• Methamphetamine
• PCP

When a person violates these laws and injures or takes the life of another person, the victim (or surviving family members) is given the legal right to recover their losses from the at-fault party. The legal process for recovering compensation is to file a personal injury claim or lawsuit with the help of a drunk driving accident attorney.

Compensation for Economic Damages

The most obvious financial losses of a drunk driving accident will come with a bill. These are referred to as economic damages. Through your Nevada drunk driving claim, you may be able to recover damages such as:

• Medical bills
• Vehicle repair or replacement costs
• Loss of income
• Lowered earning capacity if unable to return to your job
• Out-of-pocket expenses

Compensation for Non-Economic Damages

But not all costs are so immediately obvious. Another category of damages is called non-economic damages. These are the non-financial losses many injury victims suffer after a serious car accident, including:

• Pain and suffering
• Permanent disability
• Disfigurement
• Loss of quality of life
• Loss of consortium
• Emotional anguish

We work tirelessly to make sure all your losses are covered. The passion, commitment, and tenacity that Attorney Matthew L. Sharp devotes to every case has earned him the nickname “Honey Badger” from his fellow lawyers.

If you were injured by a drunk driver in Reno, Nevada, there is no more dedicated firm of legal advocates than the Law Office of Matthew L. Sharp. We’ll put in whatever hard work is necessary to see that you are awarded a fair outcome in your drunk driving accident case.

Find a Protector You Can Count on After a Reno Drunk Driving Accident

Victims of drunk driving negligence have a staunch advocate in our legal team. Each case is important to us because we believe we can truly make a difference in the lives of our clients and all those who share the roads in Reno.

There is never a reason that a drunk driving crash should happen. Every one is preventable.

A large part of our personal injury practice is defending the rights of people whose lives were shattered by intoxicated motorists. If you’re looking for answers after a crash that never should have happened, we’re here to talk.

Contact a Reno drunk driving accident lawyer for a free case evaluation. We’ll help you assess your legal options and create a path forward to recovery and justice.