If you have been injured in a drunk driving accident, you may be seeking financial compensation to help your road to recovery. Compensation can help cover the cost of your lost wages, medical bills, in-home care, and more. Continue reading to discover what victims of drunk driving accidents should do directly after being injured, how to pursue a successful personal injury case, and what dram shop laws in relation to your accident. Do not hesitate to reach out to our experienced Connecticut personal injury attorney who can walk you through this process.
What should I do if I am injured in a drunk driving accident?
Directly following a drunk driving accident, you should have a plan. Following each of the below steps will protect yourself and your future by setting yourself up for a successful personal injury claim:
- Call the authorities. The police will be able to document the incident by completing a police report. They will also send an ambulance to the scene to assist with any injuries.
- While you wait for medical assistance to arrive on the scene, ask anyone who witnessed the accident for their contact information.
- Take photos of the scene of the accident including any damage to the vehicles or property.
- Take photos of your injuries.
- Collect all medical documentation concerning your injuries. This should include the date, time, and severity of your injuries.
- Retain the services of an experienced attorney who will help you navigate the legal process ahead.
How can I pursue a drunk driving accident case?
It is possible to be awarded compensation for both physical and emotional trauma in a personal injury lawsuit. The injured party will recover compensation to cover the following:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Noneconomical damages
- Pain and suffering, emotional distress, the loss of enjoyment of life
What are dram shop laws for?
Dram shop laws are put into place in Connecticut to provide recourse for individuals who were injured by drunk drivers beyond a claim against the driver. If you are able to establish that the driver responsible for your accident was served at a bar, restaurant, or similar establishment where they were already visibly intoxicated, you may have a claim against the establishment. If a patron is visibly intoxicated and the establishment does not refuse their service, later causing them to get into a car and cause an accident, the victim of the accident may sue the establishment for their injuries.
What is the statute of limitations for drunk driving accidents in the state of Connecticut?
The statute of limitations in Connecticut for personal injury claims is two years. This means that you will have two years from the date of your accident to take legal action. iIt is important that you gain the services of an experienced personal injury attorney and begin your claim as soon as possible to avoid being barred from suing. If you fail to file a personal injury claim within two years, you will be denied your right to sue.
Contact our Firm
Marc N. Needelman is an experienced attorney working throughout the state of Connecticut. If you need an attorney who is ready to fight for the financial compensation you deserve, please do not hesitate to contact us to set up a free initial consultation. Our firm deals with matters relating to real estate, personal injury, criminal defense, estate planning, and more.