The Marathon County Sheriff’s Department reported that a drunk driver struck and seriously injured a 39-year-old man on Nov. 7. The accident happened on Highway K around 6 p.m.

According to authorities, the victim, who is a Wausau resident, was directing traffic around a prior accident involving a car and a hay trailer when a third vehicle hit him. He was taken by ambulance to Aspirus Wausau Hospital for treatment of serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

Police charged the 57-year-old Merrill man who hit the victim with drunk driving. Wisconsin State Patrol was still investigating the incident at the time of the report.

Anyone who suffers serious injuries in a car accident caused by a drunk driver can face long-lasting medical and financial consequences. In some cases, people are left with permanent disabilities that require a lifetime of expensive, specialized medical care. Additionally, while a victim attempts to recover, they often cannot work, which only adds to the financial strain.

Those injured in drunk driving accidents may wish to consult with an attorney to discuss their legal options. A lawyer could use police reports, witness accounts, blood alcohol content level tests and investigation results to establish a drunk driver’s liability in a car crash. Victims injured as a result of a drunk driver’s negligence may be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, lost wages and other damages.

Source: WSAW.com, “One Hurt, One Arrested after Marathon County Accident,” Jeff Thelen, Nov. 7, 2014

Source: wausaudailyherald.com, “Police: Man struck Friday hit by drunken driver“, November 08, 2014