There is no excuse for choosing to drive while intoxicated. When this dangerous and reckless decision harms other drivers or pedestrians, the at-fault driver deserves to be held accountable. The DUI accident lawyers at D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC have been helping accident victims get the justice and compensation they are entitled to for decades. Contact us if you have questions about your auto accident or how Connecticut’s laws may impact your ability to seek damages.

Filing a Lawsuit After a DUI Accident

Every driver on Connecticut’s roads has a responsibility to obey the rules of the road and drive safely. Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol violates that duty, which means intoxicated drivers can often be held liable for the injuries and damage they cause.

If you were involved in a DUI accident that caused injuries, you may be able to file a lawsuit to receive compensation for the harm you’ve endured. Depending on the details of your case, the driver, the insurance company, the driver’s employer, or the person who served the driver alcohol could be held responsible for your accident.

Since DUI is a crime in Connecticut, the driver may also face criminal charges. Conviction in a criminal case can be helpful to your injury claim, but a guilty DUI verdict is not required for you to seek compensation.

Connecticut Dram Shop Laws and DUI Accidents

Dram shop claims may be an option if the person who caused an accident was drunk and the place where they were drinking is known or can be identified. Connecticut’s Dram Shop Act allows injured DUI accident victims to file a lawsuit against the restaurant or bar for serving an intoxicated customer who caused a car accident. To sue an establishment under the Dram Shop Act, you must have evidence that the at-fault driver was clearly or visibly intoxicated while buying alcohol at the restaurant or bar.

In some cases, people who serve alcohol to their intoxicated guests may also be held responsible for any DUI accidents those guests cause. Providing alcohol to anyone under the age of 21 may also be considered negligence and create liability for the person who gave the minor alcohol.

Seeking Damages in DUI Accident Cases in Connecticut

Injuries, property damage, and psychological harm that come from a DUI car accident are often substantial. Seeking financial recovery from the at-fault party allows injured accident victims to focus on their healing without the added stress of medical bills and lost income.

The damages you can recover in your DUI accident case will vary depending on the unique details of your accident and injuries, but damages in Connecticut often include some or all of the following:

  • Medical bills, including past, present, and future costs
  • Physical rehabilitation and therapy costs
  • Transportation fees
  • Medications and assistive devices
  • Loss of earning potential
  • Lost income and wages
  • Emotional trauma
  • Pain and suffering
  • Post-traumatic stress disorder
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

Representation You Can Count on in Your DUI Accident Case

We understand how devastating a DUI accident and injuries can be for you and your loved ones. Our commitment to our clients is unwavering, and our compassionate yet aggressive approach to representation makes a meaningful difference in each of our cases. You deserve an advocate who has your best interests in mind and will help you recover compensation for the damage caused in a DUI accident.

Contact D’Amico & Pettinicchi, LLC today to schedule a consultation with one of our accident attorneys.