Driving while impaired is a problem nationwide. Sadly, despite public safety campaigns and DUI enforcement, Connecticut is not immune to this issue. In fact, this is a problem that affects numerous Connecticut residents every year. When a drunk driver causes an accident that results in injury or fatality, the victim or his or her surviving family members may seek compensation through legal means.
Drunk driving accident occur quite frequently. The simple truth is, hardly a day goes by without reports of such incidents in the news. When these auto accidents occur, the allegedly impaired driver may be held liable for any resulting damages.
In order for civil claims to be successful, establishing negligence will be required. This may or may not be easy to do in a case that involves DUI. For instance, it will be necessary to show proof of intoxication and the failure to exercise reasonable care. This often requires gathering police and witness reports. The outcome of any criminal proceedings may also have an affect on a civil case.
When an accident is caused by a drunk driver, the need or want for justice and compensation is understandable. Personal injury or — in the event of fatality — wrongful death claims may be filed in an effort to seek economic and non-economic damages. While cases of this nature can be trying in a number of ways, if they are navigated successfully, a Connecticut civil court may award the victims or their surviving family members monetary relief which can go a long way in helping during their recovery or grieving processes.
Source: FindLaw, “Drunk Driving Accidents“, Accessed on Nov. 29, 2015
