Drunk driving is a severe offense that poses a great danger to the safety of other road users. Unfortunately, drunk driving accidents continue, resulting in injuries, damages, and even fatalities. If you or a loved one have been involved in an accident with a drunk driver, you may wonder if it’s possible to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. This article will explore your legal options and guide drunk driving accident lawyers.

Legal Liability in Drunk Driving Accidents

When drunk driver causes an accident, they can be held legally liable for the damages and injuries they have caused. In the eyes of the law, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is considered negligence, as it violates the duty of care that all drivers owe to others on the road. As a result, if a drunk driver injures you, you have the right to pursue compensation for your losses.

Proving Liability in a Drunk Driving Lawsuit

You must establish their liability to file a successful lawsuit against a drunk driver. This requires proving that the driver was intoxicated during the accident and that their intoxication directly caused your injuries or damages. Evidence such as police reports, breathalyzer results, and eyewitness accounts can be crucial in establishing liability in a drunk driving lawsuit. A skilled personal injury attorney with experience in handling drunk driving accident cases can provide valuable legal guidance in gathering and presenting evidence to support your claim.

Civil Lawsuits vs. Criminal Charges

It’s important to understand that a drunk driving lawsuit is a civil case, separate from any criminal charges the drunk driver may face. In a criminal case, the state or government brings charges against the drunk driver for violating drunk driving laws. The purpose of criminal charges is to punish drivers for their illegal actions and protect society. On the other hand, a civil lawsuit is a legal action brought by the victim or their family seeking compensation for the damages and injuries from the accident. In a civil case, you desire to hold the drunk driver financially responsible for the harm they caused.

Types of Damages in Drunk Driving Lawsuits

If you are successful in a drunk driving lawsuit, you may be awarded various types of damages, depending on the specific circumstances of your case. These damages can include:

• Medical expenses: Compensation for medical treatment, including hospital bills, surgery, rehabilitation, and ongoing care related to your injuries.
• Lost wages: Compensation for the income you have lost due to your injuries, including past and future wages.
• Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish you have experienced due to the accident.
• Property damages: Compensation for repairing or replacing your vehicle or other property damaged in the accident.
• Punitive damages: In some cases, you may be awarded punitive damages intended to punish the drunk driver for their reckless behavior and deter others from engaging in similar conduct in the future.

Conclusion

If a drunk driver has injured you, you can seek compensation for your losses through a civil lawsuit. While filing a lawsuit against a drunk driver is possible, navigating the legal process can be complex and challenging. It’s crucial to seek legal guidance from drunk driving accident lawyers with experience handling these cases. An experienced attorney can help you understand your legal rights, gather and present evidence to establish liability and advocate to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Remember, holding drunk drivers accountable not only helps you recover the damages you are entitled to but also sends a clear message that driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is unacceptable and has consequences. By pursuing a lawsuit against a drunk driver, you may not only obtain the financial compensation you need to cover your losses but also contribute to preventing future accidents caused by drunk driving.