Collisions involving drunk drivers differs are much different than other car accidents. If somebody is drunk driving and causes an accident, they were reckless driving, which is not covered by insurance and subjects the injured party to double or triple damages. With drunk-driving accidents, there also may be a possibility of what is known as a dram shop case, which is a case against a bar or establishment for serving excess alcohol to somebody they knew or should have known would be driving. In such cases, notice has to be given within 90 days.
Because of the unique nature of these cases, it is crucial to work with an Enfield car accident lawyer if you were hit by someone who was driving under the influence. An Enfield drunk driving accident lawyer could help you pursue the payments you deserve and hold the negligent motorist accountable for their actions.
Civil and Criminal Cases Involving Drunk Drivers
Drinking while driving in Enfield is illegal. While the criminal DUI case is handled by the state of Connecticut in criminal court, an injury lawyer will make the victim’s voice heard through working with a victim’s advocate and the state’s attorney. Together, they try to obtain restitution and generally let the victim know their rights are being heard and that information will be obtained by the state and used in a civil case. Otherwise, the civil case exists completely separate from the criminal case and exists in civil court.
While a criminal case does not provide an injured party any compensation for their losses, an injury claim could. An Enfield personal injury lawyer could help an individual seek compensatory damages for things such as medical bills, non-economic damages for things such as pain and suffering, and punitive damages for reckless operation of a motor vehicle.
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Who Initiates Legal Action Against a Drunk Driver?
An injured driver does not have to press charges after an impaired driving accident. The state of Connecticut ultimately decides whether an arrest is made, although arrests are usually made at the scene, and charges are generally pending from the beginning.
The injured party in a car accident caused by a drunk driver generally is not heavily involved in the criminal case, but they usually work with a drunk driving lawyer who could work to get them the payments they need. Sometimes, the injured person may have to testify in a deposition if the case goes to litigation, but they would be prepared by and accompanied by an attorney. An Enfield drunk driving collision lawyer could guide an injured party through this legal process and ensure they are prepared for any possible hearings.
Discuss Your Legal Options with an Enfield Drunk Driving Accident Attorney
After a car accident, you probably have a lot on your plate. Dealing with legal proceedings involving a drunk driver is the last thing you want to deal with during this time. Let an Enfield drunk driving accident lawyer handle your compensation claim and any criminal proceedings so that you can focus on recovering.
A skilled member of our legal team could work with you to ensure that the impaired driver is held responsible for their reckless actions. We are dedicated to getting you the compensation you need and deserve. To learn more about what we could do for you after a drunk driving collision, give our office a call today.
