This is what happens when the police are called after a drunk driving accident in Milwaukee

Milwaukee, WI – Drivers are prohibited from using drugs or alcohol before operating their vehicles in Wisconsin and other states. Despite these laws, some impaired drivers will cause motor vehicle accidents before they are apprehended. Drivers who harm others in this manner can expect to face serious consequences, including criminal charges from the state and lawsuits from the victims or their family. Some attorneys near me focus their efforts on issues related to drunk driving and assisting accident victims. 

At the accident scene

Once law enforcement is notified, they will arrive at the scene along with other emergency services for medical treatment. After initially assessing the area, they will try to make some determinations about the cause of the accident and any potential crime. If a driver appears to be impaired or is reported to be drunk by the victim, the police will start an investigation. This can include noting the suspect’s physical appearance, driving pattern before the crash, having them perform physical exercises, and a chemical test for the presence of drugs or alcohol. All of the evidence that they collect at this time may be relevant to both criminal and civil cases against the person. It is also possible that the police will be called to testify about what they saw throughout this process. 

Wisconsin’s OWI laws

In Wisconsin, the crime of drunk driving is sometimes referred to as operating while intoxicated or OWI. A first offense crime of this nature includes a driver’s license suspension of at least six months, they need to complete substance abuse treatment, fines that can increase if the person had a high blood alcohol concentration, and there is the possibility of jail time. If someone is injured or killed during the crash, the driver responsible will be charged with a felony for driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A felony is a crime that can potentially result in at least one year of prison time. 

Civil actions for compensation

Milwaukee accident lawyers are available help those who were harmed by a drunk driver get financial assistance through a lawsuit and a settlement. Any evidence that is relevant to the driver’s negligent behaviors that caused the crash, including their consumption of drugs or alcohol, can help prove fault for the collision. Compensation can include things like healthcare costs and lost wages.

Milwaukee DUI accident lawyers can give more specific details about the possible outcome of any case, as well as the amount of compensation available to victims who they represent. 

Getting more information from a local attorney

USAttorneys.com is a website that lists lawyers who can help people after an accident in any city. The listings are organized by practice area and state, and all attorneys listed are licensed and experienced.