Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys Fighting For Crash Victims In Northern New Jersey
Since the invention of the automobile, drunk drivers have posed a serious and persistent threat to all other travelers on the road. Each year, drunk driving accidents are responsible for thousands of injuries and hundreds of deaths in New Jersey. Victims fortunate enough to survive are likely to suffer catastrophic injuries that can include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage resulting in paralysis and crushed limbs, to name just a few.
If you were involved in a devastating crash caused by a drunk driver, our drunk driving accident attorneys at Burke Law Firm, LLP, are ready to fight for you and your loved ones. Each personal injury lawyer at our firm brings more than 25 years of legal experience and a strong track record of success in litigation. As a client, you can expect personalized attention and advocacy from our dedicated legal team.
Holding Drunk Drivers Accountable In Civil And Criminal Court
Drunk driving is a serious criminal offense in New Jersey, regardless of whether it results in a crash. If you were injured by a negligent drunk driver, that person can and should face criminal prosecution. However, jail time and fines for the offender will do little to compensate you for your injuries and losses.
Thankfully, you can pursue a separate personal injury lawsuit in civil court with the assistance of our drunk driving accident lawyers. Depending on the details of your case, they can help you seek compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Permanent disability
- Lost wages from time spent unable to work
- Pain and suffering
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Property damage
- Reduced enjoyment of life
Punitive damages (those meant to punish) are reserved for cases in which the at-fault party showed a willful disregard for others’ safety or acted with extreme negligence. While punitive damages are rare, they may be appropriate in some drunk driving accident cases.
One important thing to keep in mind is that criminal and civil cases are separate from one another. A criminal conviction requires a higher standard of proof than civil liability. Therefore, you may be able to successfully sue the drunk driver for liability even if they are acquitted of, or never charged with, drunk driving. If they are convicted or plead guilty, however, these facts could provide compelling additional evidence in your lawsuit.
Who Else May Be Liable For The DUI Accident?
The driver who struck you is primarily to blame for the accident, but others may be liable as well. Under New Jersey’s “dram shop” laws, a bar or restaurant can be held liable if they served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person or a minor who then caused an accident. Our car accident attorneys can help determine if these circumstances apply to your case.
Your Drunk Driving Accident Questions Answered
Below, we provided answers to some of the most common questions asked by prospective clients injured by drunk drivers:
If I only have minor pain or injuries, why is it important to seek medical attention after being hit by a drunk driver?
Some injuries, like whiplash or internal injuries, may not show symptoms immediately. Seeking medical attention ensures that hidden injuries are treated promptly and documented, which is important for your health and any potential legal claims. It is far better to be safe than sorry – both physically and legally.
What should I do immediately after a drunk driving accident?
After a drunk driving accident, ensure your safety and call 911. As mentioned above, you should seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Document the scene by taking photos and gathering contact information from witnesses. It’s important to report the accident to your insurance company and consult a drunk driving accident attorney to understand your rights and legal options.
What evidence is important in a drunk driving accident case?
Key evidence includes police reports, medical records, witness statements, photos of the accident scene and any available video footage. Blood alcohol content (BAC) results of the driver can also be crucial. One of our lawyers can help collect and organize this evidence.
Discuss Your Case With A Drunk Driving Accident Attorney For Free
Burke Law Firm, LLP, is based in Jersey City, with additional office locations in Montclair and Bayonne. We serve clients in Hudson, Essex and Bergen counties and surrounding areas of Northern New Jersey.
We make it easy and risk-free to explore your legal options by offering free initial consultations and contingency fee representation. You pay nothing upfront, and we don’t charge legal fees until we help you recover compensation. To get started, call 201-293-8289 or reach out online.