Representing drunk driving victims
Posted on October 6, 2015 in Car Accidents
Drunk driving is illegal, reckless and possibly fatal. Victims of a drunk driver may be subject to a lifetime of medical problems and may even lose their jobs. Families of a victim killed in a drunk driving car accident, in addition to the tragic emotional toll, may also suffer severe financial losses. Drivers who are also impaired on illegal and even legal prescription drugs may also be legally liable for these losses in New York.
In 2012, alcohol impaired driving was responsible for 10,322 fatalities or 31 percent of all traffic deaths in the United States, according to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration. A traffic death attributed to a drunk driver occurred every 51 minutes on average in this country that year. Additionally, the NHTSA reports that New York suffered 344 deaths due to alcohol-related driving that year.
Drivers are not the only party that can be held responsible in a drunk driving crash. The establishment or social host who served a visibly-intoxicated motorist may also be held liable in a Dram Shop action.
Legal assistance is often required to establish fault and determine damages in these accidents. Evidence such as police reports and blood alcohol content reports must be secured promptly. Witness statements may be vital to determine whether an establishment acted irresponsibly by serving a visibly drunk driver. Action must be taken promptly because time periods restrict the time that a civil action may be filed.
Legal representation will guide drunk driving victims and their families in dealings with insurance companies, police and defendants. Attorneys in our firm have a combined 100 years of experience with representing clients in personal injury and wrongful death actions. By representing clients in settlement negotiations and all phases of civil litigation, we can help assure that plaintiffs obtain relevant evidence and receive just compensation for serious injuries and other financial losses. Families may receive damages for the loss of a loved one.