A Connecticut drunk driving car accident happens far too often. Injuries caused by a drunk driver are senseless. These incidents have long-lasting and unfortunate consequences.
And to think it could have so easily been avoided.
Hail a cab. Phone a friend. Take a walk. Or of course, not drinking at all.
According to a recent study performed by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 31% of all fatal motor vehicle accidents are caused by an impaired driver.
Tragic.
Intoxicated drivers are more than negligent – they are reckless. Therefore, in Connecticut car accident, a victim in a drunken driving crash may be awarded punitive damages. This could result in double or triple compensation.
But establishing that the driver was impaired often requires thorough investigation and extensive preparation.
Unfortunately, a drunk driving arrest is not necessarily enough to prove liability. For example, the driver may cut a deal with the Prosecutor and cop to a reduced charge. Or they might participate in the Alcohol Education Program for first time offenders. Successful completion of the Program wipes their record clean.
A few ways to improve your case:
1. Keep in touch with law enforcement so that they keep in mind that you were injured because of the accident. This includes the arresting police department and the Prosecutor handling the case in criminal court. Ask for their help in preserving the evidence (blood, breathalyzer, field sobriety tests).
2. Retaining a toxicology expert who can testify as to the level of intoxication and how that affected the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely. This may be necessary if a settlement is not reached with the insurance company and the case heads to trial.
3. Keep a journal of how you are feeling both emotionally and physically as a result of the accident.
Sometimes an accident victim can reach a fair settlement without legal representation. However, in drunken driving cases retaining an attorney is often necessary given the complexity and stakes involved.
I represent injured victims throughout Fairfield County including Easton, Fairfield, Monroe, Trumbull, Stratford, Bridgeport, Westport, Weston, New Canaan, Wilton, Norwalk, Darien, Stamford and Greenwich.
Contact me online or call my Fairfield office at (203) 259-5251 or my Stamford office at (203) 356-1475 if you or someone close was injured by a drunk driver. These claims are time sensitive so it is imperative to exercise your legal rights immediately.