Personal Injury Blog

New Jersey DUI/DWI Accident Lawyer

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 29 people die every day in the United States in auto accidents in which alcohol is involved. That’s a staggering statistic that equates to one death every 50 minutes. Every day, 800 people suffer injuries in motor vehicle accidents where at least one driver is found to be driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), according to Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD).

Drunk driving accident victims usually face steep medical bills and other losses. That’s why it’s important to contact a New Jersey DUI/DWI accident attorney as soon as you are able. You may be able to receive financial compensation to recover for your losses.

What Does New Jersey Law Say About DUI/DWI Accidents?

When an individual causes an accident while driving under the influence of alcohol or another substance, they are deemed to be negligent. Consequently, accident victims are able to file lawsuits for damages. The types of damages in DUI/DWI accident cases include physical, mental, and financial losses. Depending on the circumstances regarding your injury, you may be able to claim lost wages, reduced earning potential, medical bills, pain and suffering, loss of companionship, and more. A New Jersey drunk driving lawyer can explain your rights and the compensation you can seek from the negligent party.

Often, punitive damages are added to drunk driving accident claims. Punitive damages are appointed to the defendant to discourage them from repeating the negligent behavior in the future. Note, however, that punitive damages are awarded or denied at the judge’s discretion.

What Evidence Is Needed to Win My DUI/DWI Accident Case?

Your odds of a successful civil claim improve if the at-fault driver was charged and ultimately convicted of DWI.  However, a defendant can still be held financially responsible for an accident, even if they are not facing DUI or DWI charges.

For a successful case result, you must prove that the driver had been drinking or using drugs and negligently operated his/her car. This can be accomplished with a blood alcohol test or through witness testimony from those who saw the defendant drinking alcohol or taking drugs and driving carelessly.

Can a Bar or Restaurant in New Jersey Be Liable for Serving a Drunk Driver?

Under the dram shop statute in New Jersey (N.J. Rev. Stat. §2A:22A-1 et seq.), if a business or host serves alcohol to an individual who is clearly intoxicated or underage, they can be held accountable for any injuries to others caused by the drunk patron. In this circumstance, it must be proven that the alcohol given to the patron is the cause of their intoxication and the resulting accident.

Questions? Contact a New Jersey DUI / DWI Accident Attorney Now

If you are injured in an accident involving a drunk driver, contact the Leonard Legal Group to help ensure you protect your rights. Allow us to thoroughly investigate your accident to determine the liable parties. We will use the law to hold them accountable and get you the maximum compensation allowed by law. Schedule a free initial consultation by contacting us online now.