Every year in Virginia, thousands of innocent people suffer injuries or lose their lives due to the reckless actions of drunk drivers. According to the Virginia DMV, alcohol-related crashes accounted for nearly a third of all traffic fatalities in the state last year.
If you or a loved one has been harmed by someone driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, it’s important to know: you have rights, and you may be entitled to significant compensation.
Meet Your Attorneys: Kimberly Raab & C. James Williams III
At Burnett & Williams, your case will be handled with dedication and precision by two of Virginia’s most respected personal injury attorneys — Kimberly Raab and C. James Williams III. With decades of combined experience, they have built a reputation for successfully representing victims of DUI-related crashes throughout the state. Kimberly Raab brings a compassionate yet assertive approach to every case, ensuring clients feel supported while she pursues maximum compensation on their behalf. C. James Williams III is known for his strategic litigation skills and deep understanding of Virginia personal injury law, especially in complex DUI matters involving punitive damages. Together, they form a powerhouse legal team committed to holding drunk drivers accountable and helping victims get the justice they deserve.
How DUI Crashes Differ from Regular Accidents
DUI-related crashes are more than just accidents — they often involve criminal conduct and can result in more severe consequences for the at-fault driver. Here’s why:
Reckless Conduct: Driving under the influence is a crime and may justify punitive damages in addition to compensation for your losses.
Separate Legal Paths: A criminal DUI conviction does not automatically result in financial compensation for you — a civil claim is still required.
Insurance Challenges: Even when the driver is clearly at fault, insurance companies often try to minimize payouts or dispute the extent of your injuries.
That’s why having the right legal team on your side is critical.
Understanding Virginia’s DUI Laws
Virginia has some of the strictest DUI laws in the country. A driver is considered impaired if:
Their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher
They are impaired by drugs, including some prescription medications
A DUI offender may face:
- Criminal Penalties – such as fines, license suspension, and possible jail time
- Civil Liability – financial compensation owed to the victim
Important: A criminal conviction alone does not compensate you. You must file a civil lawsuit to recover for your injuries and losses.
Real Case Example: Jason’s Story
Jason, a college student from Chesterfield, was hit head-on by a drunk driver who ran a stop sign. The at-fault driver was arrested on the spot with a BAC of 0.14%.
The insurance company initially offered Jason $50,000, claiming his injuries were “not that serious.”
But with the representation of Kimberly Raab and C. James Williams III, Jason’s team uncovered compelling evidence of the driver’s gross negligence — ultimately securing a life-changing settlement, including punitive damages.
What Compensation Can You Recover?
If a drunk driver injured you, Virginia law may allow you to claim compensation for:
- Medical expenses (including future treatment)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Vehicle and property damage
- Punitive damages, in cases of extreme recklessness
Punitive Damages in Virginia
Under Code of Virginia § 8.01-44.5, if the drunk driver had a BAC of 0.15% or more, you may be entitled to punitive damages, even if you have already received full compensation for your losses. These damages are meant to punish the offender and deter future misconduct.
Why You Need an Attorney After a DUI Crash
Despite clear evidence, insurance companies may:
❌ Deny responsibility
❌ Downplay your injuries
❌ Offer lowball settlements
At Burnett & Williams, we:
- Investigate the driver’s criminal history and crash details
- Secure police, toxicology, and accident reports
- Work with medical and financial experts to calculate your losses
- Fight relentlessly for the maximum possible recovery
What to Do After a DUI Crash
Follow these essential steps to protect your health and your legal rights:
1. Call the Police Immediately
Ensure the responding officers test the other driver for drugs or alcohol. This creates vital evidence for your claim.
2. Seek Medical Attention
Even minor injuries can worsen over time. Early treatment also provides critical documentation for your case.
3. Gather On-Site Evidence
If you can, take photos, record witness statements, and collect contact information. Evidence fades quickly.
4. Contact a Qualified DUI Accident Attorney
The sooner you act, the stronger your case will be. A skilled lawyer can immediately begin gathering time-sensitive evidence.
Why Choose Burnett & Williams?
For over three decades, Burnett & Williams has been a trusted advocate for victims of DUI crashes in Virginia. Attorneys Kimberly Raab and C. James Williams III are known for:
Deep experience in DUI-related injury cases
Winning substantial compensation — including punitive damages
Compassionate, strategic legal guidance every step of the way
Final Thoughts
Being injured by a drunk driver is life-altering — but you don’t have to navigate it alone. With experienced legal representation, you can seek justice, recover fair compensation, and begin to rebuild your life. Let the team at Burnett & Williams fight for your rights. We’re ready to help. Call us today at 804-794-0080 or visit burnettwilliams.com to schedule your free consultation. Local offices available in Richmond, Hopewell, and Chesterfield.
FAQs About DUI Accident Claims in Virginia
Q: What if the drunk driver has no insurance?
A: Your own uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) policy may provide coverage. We can help you file a claim.
Q: Do I need to wait for the criminal trial to finish?
A: No. You can pursue your civil case immediately and even use evidence from the criminal case to bolster your claim.
Q: How long do I have to file a claim?
A: Virginia’s statute of limitations for personal injury is two years from the date of the accident (Code § 8.01-243).
