Client Victory: Drunk Driver Flees Scene and Attempts Cover Up, Client Secures Full Policy Limits
Drunk driving crashes are not ordinary car accidents. They involve deliberate choices, reckless behavior, and often attempts to avoid responsibility. This client victory shows how a thorough investigation and early action can completely change the outcome of a case.
In this matter, attorney Carrie Isben of Shane Smith Law represented a client who initially believed she had been involved in a standard hit and run. What our investigation uncovered told a very different story.
How the Crash Happened
Our client, identified as B.G., was stopped at a stop sign when another driver struck her vehicle with significant force. The driver fled the scene immediately, leaving B.G. injured and confused about what had happened.
At the time, B.G. did not know she had been hit by a drunk driver. She contacted Shane Smith Law because she was in pain, needed medical care, and needed help dealing with the damage to her vehicle.
The Drunk Driving Cover Up
A review of the accident report raised red flags, including an indication that alcohol may have been involved. That triggered a deeper investigation.
Attorney Carrie Isben obtained the criminal court file related to the crash, which revealed critical facts not included in the accident report:
- The at fault driver was intoxicated at the time of the crash
- He fled the scene and went home
- He began drinking again in an attempt to cover up his intoxication
- Police located him at his home and arrested him
- He refused all breath and blood testing, which elevated the criminal charges
This information fundamentally changed the case and significantly strengthened B.G.’s claim.
Injuries and Medical Treatment
B.G. suffered neck and back injuries as a result of the collision. She was referred for orthopedic care, where imaging revealed more serious cervical spine issues than initially expected.
Prompt medical treatment documented the full extent of her injuries and ensured that her condition was taken seriously from the outset.
Strategic Case Preparation Leads to Fast Resolution
Drunk driving cases allow for different legal strategies, including the pursuit of punitive damages. However, strong results do not happen automatically. They require organization, evidence, and pressure.
In this case, Carrie Isben presented the insurance company with a comprehensive demand package that included:
- Complete medical records and MRI findings
- Certified copies of the criminal court file
- Proof of the driver’s refusal to submit to testing
- Evidence of prior alcohol related driving restrictions
When confronted with the full picture, the insurance company tendered policy limits quickly, avoiding the need for prolonged litigation.
A Key Lesson From This Case
Many clients underestimate their cases at the beginning. B.G. initially believed she simply needed help with a car accident and medical bills. What she did not see was the full scope of accountability that could be enforced.
As Carrie Isben put it, the lesson from this case is simple:
Never underestimate your case.
When clients reach out early and allow the firm time to investigate, the results can exceed expectations.
We Investigate What Others Miss
At Shane Smith Law, we do not rely solely on accident reports. We dig deeper, pull criminal files, uncover hidden facts, and build cases that insurance companies cannot ignore.
If you were injured by a drunk driver or involved in a hit and run, help is available.
Shane Smith Law
📞 980-999-9999
In pain? Call Shane.
