Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs causes serious, preventable accidents. For people and families in Northern Indiana, dealing with a drunk driving crash means facing huge physical, emotional, and money problems. At Foley & Murphy, we help those who have suffered. We work only for victims and their families, never for the driver who caused the crash. This article will explain drunk driving incidents in Indiana, discuss the laws, and show how our firm helps people get justice and recover.
Drunk Driving Numbers in Indiana
Impaired driving is a major safety issue in Indiana. The numbers show how serious this problem is:
The Indiana Criminal Justice Institute (ICJI) reported 8,873 crashes caused by impaired driving in 2022.
These crashes led to 220 deaths and 4,402 injuries.
These are more than just numbers. They show lives changed, families broken, and futures ruined. The personal cost goes far beyond car damage. It includes lasting physical pain, emotional distress, and big money problems for victims.
Understanding Indiana’s OWI Laws
In Indiana, operating a vehicle while intoxicated (OWI) means a driver blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or higher. It also applies if their driving is affected by alcohol or drugs.
Indiana has strong laws against OWI, showing the state’s resolve to stop impaired driving. Charges range from minor offenses to serious crimes. Penalties become much harsher if the impaired driver causes injury or death.
For example, an OWI causing serious injury can be a Level 5 Felony. An OWI causing death can be a Level 4 Felony. These criminal charges prove how wrong the driver’s actions were. This is very important for a victim’s separate civil claim. Also, Indiana has an implied consent law. This means drivers agree to chemical tests if police suspect OWI.
Getting Justice and Recovery: Your Rights as a Victim
The state handles criminal charges against a drunk driver. But this process does not directly pay victims for their losses. A separate civil claim allows victims and their families to seek money for damages. Through a civil lawsuit, injured people can ask for money to cover:
- Medical bills (current and future)
- Lost wages and ability to earn money
- Physical pain and emotional suffering
- Property damage
- Wrongful death costs for families who lost a loved one
- Punitive damages, which punish the driver for reckless behavior and discourage others from doing the same
It is important to know that legal time limits, called statutes of limitations, apply to these claims. So, acting quickly is smart.
Why Choose Foley & Murphy: Your Trusted Helpers
Foley & Murphy is a strong partner for people and families hurt by drunk driving accidents. Our firm only represents injured parties. This means all our efforts go toward getting good results for victims. We understand Indiana personal injury law, especially for drunk driving cases. We offer full support, from investigating the accident and dealing with insurance companies to figuring out fair payment and fighting for you in talks or in court. We handle each case with care and give personal legal advice during a very hard time.
We also work on a contingency fee basis. This means our clients pay no legal fees unless we win their case.
Start Your Healing Journey
Dealing with a drunk driving accident can feel overwhelming. But you do not have to face it alone. Knowing your legal rights and having experienced help is key to getting the justice and recovery you deserve. If you or a family member has been affected by drunk driving in Indiana, please contact Foley & Murphy for a free talk. Let us discuss your situation and explain how we can help you move forward.
Contact Foley & Murphy today for a free consultation or call us at 574-288-7676.
