Skip to Content
Top
Drunk Driving Accidents

Drunk Driving Accident Attorney in DeKalb County

Your Guide to Support, Answers, and Justice After a Drunk Driving Accident

If you or someone close to you has been injured because of a drunk driver in DeKalb County, you are likely facing more questions than answers. You may be worried about your health, struggling with mounting medical bills, wondering when you can return to work, or feeling uncertain about how to hold the other driver accountable. At Turner Law Group, we understand how overwhelming this time can feel, and our team is here to help you find clarity and regain control after a drunk driving accident.

You deserve support that is both compassionate and knowledgeable. Our attorneys, Rick Turner and Margie Komes Putzler, focus on providing personal attention, local insight, and skilled legal representation for injury victims throughout DeKalb County. We offer more than just legal advice. We stand by your side and guide you toward a fair outcome, every step of the way.

Call (800) 653-0198 for a free case evaluation or send a secure message to start your claim today.

Why Choose Turner Law Group After a Drunk Driving Accident?

Victims of drunk driving crashes in DeKalb County need more than just legal help. They deserve attention from attorneys who know the area and understand what they are facing. At Turner Law Group, you work directly with Rick Turner and Margie Komes Putzler. You are never handed off to distant staff. We believe that focused, personal legal care makes a powerful difference during times like these.

Our attorneys have served individuals throughout Northern Illinois, including DeKalb, Kendall, and Kane Counties. We understand the DeKalb County legal system, have relationships with providers at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital, and appear regularly at the Sycamore courthouse. This local knowledge helps us move efficiently and anticipate needs unique to clients in this region.

You also benefit from our commitment to every case. We use a careful, methodical approach to investigation, maintain open lines of communication, and negotiate directly with insurance companies. Our strategy is built around helping you recover after a traumatic event. Justice and client satisfaction are always at the heart of our work.

Understanding Your Rights After a Drunk Driving Accident

After a drunk driving crash, many victims are unsure of their next steps. Knowing your rights can protect both your health and your legal case. Your first priority should always be to seek medical care. Document your injuries, keep copies of medical records, and follow up with every recommended treatment. These steps support your claim later if you decide to pursue one.

Once you’ve received care, you may have questions about medical bills, missing time at work, or dealing with insurance adjusters. We can help you understand your options in DeKalb County and guide you through the personal injury claim process. If law enforcement responded to your crash, we will help you access police reports from the DeKalb Police Department or Sheriff’s Office and use them to support your case.

We strive to relieve your stress by taking on the legal process so you can focus on recovery. By clarifying your rights and outlining each stage, we empower you to make thoughtful decisions that protect your interests.

Key Steps to Protect Your Rights

After a drunk driving crash, keep these steps in mind:

  • Get immediate medical attention and keep thorough records.
  • Document the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries if possible.
  • Request a copy of the police report from the DeKalb Police Department or Sheriff’s Office.
  • Save all correspondence from insurance companies or other parties involved.
  • Contact a drunk driving accident attorney in DeKalb County early to discuss your options and protect your rights.

How Our Attorneys Build a Strong Case for You

Each drunk driving accident case starts with a careful review of what happened. Our process includes thorough investigation, gathering police reports, working with physicians and hospitals like Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital, and collecting vital evidence. We adapt our approach to the circumstances of DeKalb County, relying on our experience to anticipate what challenges may lie ahead.

There are two primary types of damages after a DUI accident: economic damages like medical bills or lost income, and non-economic damages such as pain, suffering, and reduced quality of life. We help clients pursue both, calculating their value based on current needs and expected future impact. We have significant experience negotiating with insurance companies and understand their tactics. We always prepare each case as if it could go to court, so you can feel confident that we are ready for any outcome.

You’ll always know where your claim stands. We outline expected timelines, update you frequently, and answer questions directly. Whether you were hurt yourself or are helping a family member, our thorough preparation and commitment to integrity help us stand out as a drunk driving accident lawyer DeKalb County residents trust.

Our Process for DUI Accident Claims

Our approach gives you confidence at every step:

  • Initial consultation to understand your story and concerns
  • Fact-gathering: reviewing accident reports and medical records
  • Communicating with insurance companies and opposing parties
  • Pursuing all available damages, including medical costs, lost income, and pain and suffering
  • Updating you regularly and planning for settlement or trial based on your needs

Facing Drunk Driving Accidents in DeKalb County

Drunk driving accidents have a lasting impact on communities like DeKalb County. Local law enforcement agencies such as the DeKalb Police Department and the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office actively enforce DUI laws, yet victims must still navigate a complicated aftermath. Emergency care is frequently provided at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital, and civil cases are generally handled at the DeKalb County Circuit Court in Sycamore.

Understanding how local court dockets operate, how police reports are processed, and how area hospitals document treatment gives us a true advantage in moving your case forward. These local details can affect the timeline, available documentation, and sometimes even the value of your claim.

How Local Knowledge Helps Your Case

Our experience in DeKalb County benefits clients in several ways:

  • We know the processes and expectations of the DeKalb County Circuit Court.
  • We understand local medical provider documentation.
  • We help you access police reports from the appropriate agency.
  • We anticipate and address county-specific legal procedures.

What to Expect When You Work With Turner Law Group

From our first meeting together, you will see that our attorneys value transparency and communication. We explain the legal process step by step, answer your questions, and outline what you can expect at every phase. Clients are never left wondering who is working on their matter or how to get answers.

We offer a free initial consultation and work on a contingency fee basis. This means you pay nothing up front, and our fee only applies if we secure compensation on your behalf. This approach allows you to focus on recovery while we address the legal and financial challenges on your behalf.

Our commitment is to support you, keep you informed, and help you feel empowered as your case progresses. We manage the complexities so you can focus on getting better.

Frequently Asked Questions

How soon should I contact a lawyer after a drunk driving accident?

You should contact a lawyer as soon as you are medically stable after a drunk driving accident. Early legal support helps preserve your rights, gather evidence quickly, and address insurance company issues before they become problems. Our team at Turner Law Group is always prepared to listen, provide information, and begin working for you. Acting swiftly gives you an advantage during the claims process.

What can your attorneys do that insurance companies won’t?

We work for you, not the insurer. Our attorneys review the full effects of a drunk driving accident, including both economic and non-economic damages, and negotiate for fair compensation. Unlike insurance adjusters, we provide guidance for every option—not just a quick settlement. If negotiations fail, we are prepared to pursue your matter before the DeKalb County Circuit Court.

Will I have to go to court in DeKalb County?

Many drunk driving accident claims are settled without going to court, but some do proceed before a judge. In these cases, your matter is usually handled by the DeKalb County Circuit Court in Sycamore. Whether you need to appear in person depends on the specifics of your claim. If court becomes necessary, we prepare you for each step and stand by you throughout the process.

How do you keep clients informed about their case?

We give regular updates, clearly explain timelines, and respond to questions as they arise. You will always know your case’s status and the next steps. Our attorneys are easily reachable by phone, email, or in-person meetings. Clear and open communication is a cornerstone of our approach at Turner Law Group.

What does it cost to hire Turner Law Group for my case?

There is no charge for your initial consultation, and you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We handle drunk driving accident claims on a contingency fee basis, so you do not risk financial strain to pursue your rights. This makes it easier to seek justice in DeKalb County during a difficult time.

Can you help if the drunk driver was not charged?

Yes, we are able to represent you even if the drunk driver was not criminally charged. Civil claims for personal injury are separate from the criminal process. We can pursue your case based on evidence of negligence or intoxication, regardless of whether criminal charges were filed. Our attorneys have experience guiding clients through these situations and making sure available evidence supports your claim.

Take the Next Step in DeKalb County for the Compensation You Deserve

Every day that passes, evidence can fade, and insurers gain leverage. With deep local insight in DeKalb County, our team moves fast to secure proof, document your losses, and build a compelling claim.
Whether you were treated at Northwestern Medicine Kishwaukee Hospital or are still sorting out next steps, we provide clear answers and steady support.

Call (800) 653-0198 to schedule your free consultation with our drunk driving accident attorney DeKalb County residents rely on.

Real People, Real Results

Over Millions Recovered for Those Injured
  • $1.1 Million Auto Accident
  • $4.25 Million Product Liability/Construction Injury
  • $1.125 Million Auto Accident
  • $2.9 Million Semi v. Auto Accident

    A truck driver crossed center grass median on the interstate, struck the client head-on causing her death.

  • $325,000 Truck v. Auto
  • $465,000 Premises Accident

Get Personalized Representation

Contact Our Team

A member of our team will be in touch shortly to confirm your contact details or address questions you may have.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to receive text messages from Turner Law Group at the number provided, including those related to your inquiry, follow-ups, and review requests, via automated technology. Consent is not a condition of purchase. Msg & data rates may apply. Msg frequency may vary. Reply STOP to cancel or HELP for assistance. Acceptable Use Policy

FAQs

Common Answers To Your Questions
  • What qualifies as a personal injury?

    A personal injury generally refers to any bodily injury sustained in an accident, from minor bruises to severe brain trauma. The most common personal injury claims arise from harm sustained from traffic wrecks, slip and fall accidents, defective products, dangerous property conditions, and medical malpractice.

  • What is the personal injury statute of limitations in Illinois?

    Under state law, the statute of limitations (or deadline) for most personal injury claims in Illinois is two years from the date of the accident. However, for claims against governmental agencies, there are special limitation periods that may be as short as a year. You should always consult with an attorney on what particular limitations period might apply to your claim. You should seek legal help immediately, as a delay may be fatal to your claim. Unless you have a special exception, your claim will be thrown out if you attempt to file after the limitations period has passed.


    Because every personal injury claim is different, it is difficult to determine an average settlement. A victim who lost a limb will likely need to receive more in medical expenses than someone who broke an arm, for instance. Although personal injury claims tend to average anywhere between $3000 to $75,000—an extremely broad range—there may be significant economic and noneconomic factors in your individual case that may indicate that your particular claim would be valued at a significantly higher figure at trial in front of a jury. An attorney can help you estimate your unique losses based on the facts of your case. The knowledge of an attorney experienced in jury verdict value is extremely important. You should be entitled to make up for your specific losses at the very least.
     

  • What evidence is needed for a personal injury claim?

    Necessary evidence can vary case by case depending on the specifics of your situation. However, one of the most helpful pieces of evidence is your medical records. If you can prove that you sought medical attention for a serious injury after an accident, you are more likely to receive compensation to cover the expenses associated with said injury. Other helpful evidence includes any photographs of the accident scene, accident reports, witness statements, insurance forms, receipts, and any other physical evidence related to the injury.

  • What is the average settlement for a personal injury?

    Because every personal injury claim is different, it is difficult to determine an average settlement. A victim who lost a limb will likely need to receive more in medical expenses than someone who broke an arm, for instance. This means that personal injury claims tend to average anywhere between $3000 to $75,000—an extremely broad range. An attorney can help you estimate your unique losses based on the facts of your case. You should be entitled to make up for your specific losses at the very least.