New York Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Holding Drunk Drivers Accountable for Injuries in Car Accidents

If a drunk driver gets convicted, you can be relieved the driver is off the road, but a criminal conviction does not pay for your medical bills or lost income. Drunk driving accidents that result in serious injuries may require a civil lawsuit to recover damages.

Drunk drivers put people’s lives at risk across the nation on a daily basis. According to the most recent CDC statistics, more than 10,000 people were killed in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in 2016, and this number represented 28 percent of all traffic-related U.S. deaths.

Victims of drunk driving accidents should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who knows the legal tactics and arguments necessary to maximize the amount of compensation received when suing for recovery of damages. In some instances, punitive damages may also be sought.

Unfortunately, many drunk drivers have drinking problems and are involved in more than one car accident. When this is the case, the driver also may no longer carry auto insurance.

What Legal Options Are Available for Recovering Compensation in Drunk Driving Accidents?

Your New York personal injury lawyer will conduct an investigation to gather details to establish fault in the accident and determine which parties can be held legally accountable for accident damages.

In some instances, a restaurant, bar or club may be liable under New York Dram Shop Law. NY law enables an injured individual or the individual's family (if the accident victim has died) to recover compensation. However, the attorney must prove that the driver was visibly intoxicated when served or sold alcohol.

When a drunk driver has no insurance, another legal option that a claimant may take is to file an uninsured motorist claim with the insurance company. To ensure a fair settlement, a skilled attorney can represent the claimant and assist in settlement negotiations with insurance company agents.

What Types of Evidence Are Helpful in a Drunk Driving Case?

Vital evidence when pursuing a drunk driving case often includes:

• Witness statements
• Police reports
• Medical records or physicians’ evaluations to show severity of injuries
• Breathalyzer, blood or urine tests to substantiate intoxication
• Videos or photographs of the accident scene

Consult with Experienced Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers

Our attorneys are glad to answer your legal questions, such as how a criminal DUI case could affect your civil case, or to address other concerns you may have. It is wise to seek a legal opinion when criminal defense attorneys and insurance companies are involved. The legal process can seem confusing, and confusion only adds to the stress and trauma of an accident.

Sackstein Sackstein & Lee, LLP provides you with access to seasoned personal injury lawyers. Our firm has achieved notable case results, and we work diligently to build your case, protect your interests, negotiate with insurance companies, and if necessary take your case to trial.

Call us toll free at 888.519.6400, or contact us in Garden City at 516.248.2234, or in Flushing-Queens, Brooklyn or the Bronx at 718.539.3100. You can also fill in our contact form, and we will get in touch with you.