All drivers should know better than to try to drive a car after having too much to drink. The reality is many folks fail to use common sense, break the law, and end up causing car accidents.
At Richard Schwartz & Associates Injury Lawyers, P.A., we advocate for victims of drunk driving accidents in Mississippi. For more than 40 years, our firm has been delivering successful outcomes for clients facing costly medical bills, lost income, and ongoing pain and suffering due to their injuries. If you have been injured by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation for your damages.
We Help Recover Your Losses
When people choose to drive drunk, they put innocent lives at risk. Many drunk driving accidents end up causing severe injuries or even death to individuals who were unimpaired and obeying the traffic laws. Unfortunately, some drunk drivers even leave the scene of the accident, which is illegal. If you were injured in a hit-and-run accident, we can help you navigate the complexities of these cases as well.
Depending on the severity of the crash, you could be eligible for compensation to cover:
- Long-term hospitalization
- Loss of income and earning capacity
- Accumulating medical bills
- Ongoing treatment costs
- Temporary or permanent disability
- Vehicle and property damage
If someone you love was killed in an accident involving a drunk driver, contact our personal injury lawyers. We can help you file a wrongful death lawsuit. While no amount of money can ever make up for your loss, getting compensation can go a long way in relieving the financial burden of medical and funeral costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the drunk driving law in Mississippi?
Mississippi law prohibits operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for adults. The state has strict penalties for driving under the influence (DUI), including fines, jail time, and license suspension.
Is Mississippi a zero-tolerance state?
Yes, Mississippi has a zero-tolerance law for drivers under the age of 21. For underage drivers, a BAC of 0.02% or higher can lead to DUI charges, which carry penalties such as fines, license suspension, and mandatory alcohol education programs.
What is the 4th offense of a DUI in Mississippi?
A fourth DUI offense in Mississippi is classified as a felony. This can result in severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison, large fines, and a permanent loss of driving privileges.
What makes a DUI a felony in Mississippi?
A DUI becomes a felony in Mississippi if it is the driver’s third offense within five years or if the DUI results in serious injury or death. Felony DUIs carry harsher penalties, including longer jail sentences and higher fines.
How long does a DUI stay on your record in Mississippi?
A DUI conviction stays on your record in Mississippi for five years. After this period, subsequent DUIs are treated as first-time offenses, though insurance rates and other personal records may still reflect the previous convictions.
What age do most drunk driving accidents occur?
Drunk driving accidents most commonly occur among drivers between the ages of 21 and 34. This age group is statistically more likely to drive under the influence and be involved in fatal crashes caused by impaired driving.
Is your license suspended immediately after a DUI in Mississippi?
Yes, in Mississippi, your license may be suspended immediately after being charged with a DUI, particularly if you refuse a breathalyzer test. The suspension length can vary depending on whether it is a first-time or repeat offense.
