
Driving under the influence puts everyone on the road at risk. In Metairie, Louisiana, DUI accidents often result in devastating injuries and expensive medical bills. Contact Santana & Blanchard Personal Injury Lawyers today for a free consultation with an experienced Metairie DUI accident lawyer at (504) 323-6000.
If you were hit by a drunk driver, you have the right to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. We bring 26 years of combined legal experience to every case. With millions recovered for injured clients, the firm knows how to build a strong claim after a DUI crash.
How Santana & Blanchard Can Help After a DUI Accident in Metairie, LA

Dealing with the aftermath of a DUI crash can feel overwhelming. Insurance companies may try to minimize your injuries or blame you for the crash. Santana & Blanchard will take on the legal burden so you can focus on recovery.
Our car accident lawyers from our firm can:
- Investigate the crash: Gather evidence like police reports, BAC test results, and witness statements
- Determine liability: Prove the other driver was intoxicated and caused the collision
- Document your losses: Calculate medical bills, lost income, property damage, and pain and suffering
- Negotiate with insurance: Push for a fair settlement that fully reflects your damages
- File a lawsuit if needed: Take the case to court when insurers refuse to pay what you deserve
Every DUI accident claim is unique, and our firm offers a personalized approach for every injured client.
What Happens When a Drunk Driver Causes an Accident in Louisiana?
Louisiana is a fault state, which means the at-fault driver is legally responsible for the harm they cause. When a driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they are almost always considered negligent.
Key evidence in DUI accident cases may include:
- Police accident reports
- Dashcam or surveillance footage
- Breathalyzer or blood test results
- Witness testimony
- Statements from bar staff or other drivers
A DUI arrest or conviction can strengthen your case, but is not required to pursue civil damages. Civil cases require a lower burden of proof, so you may still succeed even if the driver was not charged criminally.
What Compensation Can You Claim After a DUI Crash?
You may be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages.
These may include:
- Medical bills (past and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Property damage (vehicle and personal items)
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of enjoyment of life
In severe cases, like traumatic brain injury or spinal damage, compensation can be significant. Your attorney will work with medical and financial experts to calculate the full impact of your injuries.
What If the Drunk Driver Was Uninsured?
If the intoxicated driver had no insurance or fled the scene, you may still have options. Louisiana drivers can add uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage to their auto policies. This coverage can help pay for your injuries when the at-fault driver can’t.
Even your own insurance company may try to avoid paying what you’re owed. Having a lawyer on your side can make a difference.
Is There a Deadline to File a DUI Injury Lawsuit in Louisiana?
Yes. The Louisiana statute of limitations gives you a limited time to take legal action:
- Personal injury claims: 2 years from the date of the crash
- Wrongful death claims: 1 year from the date of death
These deadlines are strict. If you miss the filing window, the court will likely dismiss your case. That’s why it’s critical to contact a Metairie DUI accident lawyer as soon as possible after the crash.
Can a Bar or Restaurant Be Held Liable for a DUI Accident?
In some cases, Louisiana law allows claims against third parties, such as bars or restaurants, that served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who later caused a crash. This type of case is known as a dram shop claim.
While Louisiana’s dram shop laws are more limited than in other states, certain circumstances may allow you to pursue a claim against:
- A business that served a minor
- An establishment that encouraged excessive drinking
- A bar or venue with a history of overserving
If evidence suggests a bar contributed to the crash, your attorney can evaluate whether a dram shop claim is worth pursuing.
Contact a Metairie DUI Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation
A drunk driving crash can turn your life upside down. Medical bills pile up, insurance companies fight you, and the trauma may last long after the accident. You don’t have to face it alone. Speak with a Metairie DUI accident attorney from Santana & Blanchard Personal Injury Lawyers today to get the legal guidance you need.
With extensive experience in cases involving DUI accidents, excessive speed, and distracted driving, we are here to stand up for your rights and guide you through the recovery process.