Connecticut Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers
Fighting For Those Who Have Been Injured By a Drunk Driving Accident in Connecticut
There is never an excuse for driving while under the influence of alcohol. Unfortunately, many people choose to get behind the wheel of a car after consuming alcohol, leading to countless accidents, injuries, and deaths every year. While drunk drivers face criminal penalties, they can also be held legally accountable for their actions through civil lawsuits.
At RisCassi & Davis, P.C., we represent victims of drunk driving accidents and fight for justice on their behalf. Since 1955, our team has been dedicated to securing maximum compensation for individuals who have suffered the consequences of someone else’s negligence. Our Connecticut drunk driving accident attorneys have secured some of the largest injury settlements and verdicts in the state—we have what it takes to aggressively advocate for you and your recovery.
Contact us online or call (860) 245-2412 to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with our Connecticut drunk driving accident attorneys today!
Can You Sue If You Get Hit By a Drunk Driver?
All motorists are responsible for following all traffic laws, obeying the rules of the road, and taking reasonable measures to keep others safe. Driving while intoxicated is a clear violation of that duty. Not only is drunk driving against the law, but it is also hazardous and can lead to catastrophic injuries. Often, these incidents are fatal.
When someone sustains a severe injury in a drunk driving accident, who is liable for the resulting damages? Can you sue the drunk driver and have them pay for your medical bills and other losses? Can you hold them accountable for your pain and suffering?
The short answer is yes, you can file a lawsuit against a drunk driver and seek compensation for your damages. Also, the drunk driver might not be the only liable party in some cases. If he or she was over-served by a restaurant or bar, you could potentially file a claim against that establishment.
Connecticut’s Dram Shop & Social Host Laws
If the driver who injured you in your accident was drunk, and we can identify where he or she was drinking, we may be able to bring a claim against those who served the alcohol.
In this instance, your claim may fall into two general categories:
- Dram Shop Laws: Bringing a lawsuit against a bar or restaurant for over-serving someone is called a “dram shop” claim. In these cases, the law requires that written notice be provided to the bar or restaurant before filing a claim, so it is very important that we have as much lead time as possible to investigate and preserve your rights.
- Social Host Laws: Connecticut law now recognizes claims against a social host who negligently serves or provides alcohol to a guest. Serving or providing alcohol to a minor also gives rise to negligence claims against the provider.
What Damages Could Be Recovered in Drunk Driving Accident Cases?
When you bring a drunk driving accident claim, you are seeking financial compensation for your damages, not criminal penalties against the drunk driver or another party who served alcohol to the driver. Whether or not criminal proceedings occur and regardless of the outcome of a criminal case, you are entitled to file a separate civil lawsuit.
Depending on the specifics of your case, you could be entitled to recover compensation for the following damages:
- Emergency medical care
- Ambulance fees
- All medical treatment related to the accident
- Hospital/emergency room fees
- Ongoing and future medical treatment
- Rehabilitative therapy
- Medications and medical equipment/devices
- Lost income/wages
- Lost future earnings
- Loss of earning capacity (disability)
- In-home care costs
- Counseling services
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma and distress
- Anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc.
- Reduced quality of life
- Funeral/burial expenses (in wrongful death cases)
At RisCassi & Davis, P.C., we are ready to represent you and fight to protect your best interests.
Understanding Your Rights After a Drunk Driving Accident
Being involved in a drunk driving accident can leave victims feeling confused and overwhelmed. Understanding your rights and the legal options available to you is crucial. At RisCassi & Davis, P.C., we are dedicated to ensuring you are well informed and supported during this challenging time. Knowing your rights can empower you to seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Here are key rights you should be aware of:
- Right to Compensation: As a victim, you can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident.
- Right to Legal Representation: You can hire an attorney specializing in personal injury law. Our experienced team at RisCassi & Davis is here to advocate for you and navigate the complexities of your case.
- Right to Access Evidence: You have the right to obtain police reports, medical records, and other relevant documents that can support your claim.
- Right to a Fair Settlement: Insurance companies may attempt to settle quickly for less than your claim is worth. You can negotiate and seek a fair settlement that accurately reflects your injuries and losses.
At RisCassi & Davis, we believe that every victim deserves justice. Our team will work tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the care and compensation you are entitled to.
Were you or a loved one injured by a drunk driver? Call RisCassi & Davis, P.C. today at (860) 245-2412 or contact us online to explore your legal options and start building your case!
What Sets Us Apart
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Significant Honors & Recognition
In our 70+ years of experience, we have received both national & regional recognition for our handling of injury cases, and many honors from our legal colleagues.
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An Expert Team Approach
We have an extensive national network of experts available to us in the fields of medicine, engineering, traffic safety, accident reconstruction, and more – each available to work on your case should it require their expertise.
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Over Half a Billion Dollars RecoveredWe've taken hundreds of cases to trial and we've won some of the largest personal injury verdicts and settlements in Connecticut history.
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Board-Certified Trial LawyersOur seven attorneys who have achieved this honor demonstrated they have the training & depth of experience to help you get the best possible outcome for your case.
Understanding the Legal Process for Drunk Driving Accident Cases
Being involved in a drunk driving accident can be a traumatic experience, but it's important to understand the legal process for seeking justice and compensation. Our experienced Connecticut drunk driving accident lawyers can guide you through each step of the legal process and help you understand your rights.
Key aspects of the legal process for drunk driving accident cases include:
- Evidence collection and preservation
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit
- Potential trial proceedings
- Recovering damages for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more
By working with our dedicated legal team, you can ensure that your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
How Is Fault Determined In A Drunk Driving Accident Case in Connecticut?
In Connecticut, determining fault in a drunk driving accident case involves a thorough investigation and the application of state laws. As your Connecticut drunk driving accident lawyer, we aim to clarify this process and ensure you understand how liability is established.
Below are some factors that help determine fault:
- Intoxication Evidence: Intoxication plays a critical role in assessing fault. If the driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident, this can be a significant factor in proving negligence.
- Police reports
- Breathalyzer results
- Field sobriety tests
- Witness Statements and Accident Scene Evidence: Eyewitnesses can provide valuable testimony about the driver's behavior before and during the accident.
- Eyewitness accounts
- Skid marks
- Vehicle damage
- Traffic camera footage
- Comparative Negligence Rule: Connecticut follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages even if you are partially at fault, as long as you are not more than 50% responsible for the accident. This rule underscores the importance of accurately determining each party's level of fault.
Our team of drunk driving accident attorneys in Connecticut will meticulously gather and analyze all relevant evidence to build a robust case in your favor. We work closely with experts, such as accident reconstruction specialists, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the incident.
By partnering with experienced legal professionals, you can better navigate the complexities of a drunk driving accident claim and work toward achieving a fair and just outcome.
Could a Criminal Conviction Help Your Personal Injury Claim?
Oftentimes, in drunk driving accidents, the responsible party will face both a civil personal injury claim and a criminal DUI charge. A criminal conviction can sometimes help your personal injury case in situations where this occurs. If evidence has already established that the driver was drunk during the accident, they demonstrated negligence by disregarding their duty of care to other drivers.
On the same note, if the responsible driver is acquitted of criminal charges, that doesn't automatically mean that your personal injury claim will fail. Personal injury cases require different evidence to secure compensation and do not require a criminal conviction to be successful. To learn more, speak to our DUI accident lawyers today!
Seeking Justice for Drunk Driving Victims
At RisCassi & Davis, P.C., our team of experienced lawyers is dedicated to fighting for the rights of those who have been injured by drunk driving accidents in Connecticut. We understand the devastating impact these accidents can have on victims and their families, and we are committed to seeking justice and fair compensation for our clients.
When you choose us to represent you, you can expect:
- Compassionate and personalized legal representation
- Thorough investigation of the accident and gathering of evidence
- Negotiation with insurance companies for a fair settlement
- Aggressive litigation in court, if necessary
Our goal is to hold responsible parties accountable for their actions and to help our clients recover the compensation they deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident.
Contact Our Connecticut Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Today
If you believe that you may have a claim against a drunk driver, a bar, or someone else who provided liquor to a drunk driver, you should consult a Connecticut drunk driving accident attorney at our firm right away, as state law provides short deadlines for notice and suit regarding some claims against liquor sellers and other parties. In nearly all cases, you only have two years from the accident date to file your personal injury claim.
Ultimately, we hope that by aggressively pursuing all legally available claims, we will achieve the best results for you and help bring about more responsible practices by individuals, bars, and restaurants, leading to safer roadways.
Don’t wait to take action. Contact our Connecticut drunk driving accident lawyers now for a free consultation, and let us help you pursue the justice and compensation you deserve!
Commonly Asked Questions
What should I do immediately after being involved in a drunk driving accident?
After an accident, prioritize your safety and the safety of others. If possible, move to a safe location, check for injuries, and call emergency services. Documenting the scene, gathering information from witnesses, and taking photos of the vehicles and surroundings are also essential.
Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault in the accident?
Yes, Connecticut follows a modified comparative negligence rule. You can still recover damages as long as your percentage of fault is 50% or less. Your compensation may be reduced by your level of fault in the accident.
What kind of evidence is important in a drunk driving accident case?
Key evidence includes police reports, eyewitness statements, photographs of the scene, medical records documenting injuries, and any evidence showing the other driver was intoxicated, such as breathalyzer test results or admissions of guilt.
Our Settlements & Verdicts
Recent Case Victories
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$40 Million Truck Accident
Pedestrian injured by a delivery truck resulting in paralysis.
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$12.6 Million Wrongful Death
Injury and death damages as a result of an explosion at the Kleen Energy plant.
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$11 Million Truck Accident
Collision with commercial delivery truck results in brain injury.
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$9 Million Paralyzed Worker
$9,000,000 settlement for a paralyzed construction worker.
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$8.1 Million Medical Malpractice
Improperly performed biopsy lead to wrongful death.
