According to drunk driving statistics published by Mothers Against Drunk Driving, or MADD, someone is hurt in a drunk driving crash every 90 seconds. When people suffer temporary or permanent disabilities as the result of negligence in drunk driving accidents, they often want to exact some justice for their injuries, as well as receive adequate compensation to make them whole again. While most people understand that such situations can and do result in successful lawsuits, many do not know that they can sue more than just the irresponsible driver. Below is a basic discussion of the parties that might be named as defendants in a drunk driving lawsuit.
The Intoxicated Driver
It is somewhat obvious that a drunk driver can be sued for behaving negligently. If the intoxicated driver is tested and discovered to have a blood alcohol content that is above the legal limit, a lawsuit for compensation may be relatively straightforward. However, since some of these drivers are uninsured and do not have enough in assets to cover damages that are ordered by a court, plaintiffs may need to look elsewhere to recoup the financial losses they sustained as a result of their injuries.
Bars, Restaurants and Other Businesses
Under dram shop laws, businesses can be held liable for serving alcohol to a minor or to visibly intoxicated patrons if those individuals then drive while intoxicated and cause drunk driving accidents. According to legal definitions, dram shops are any businesses that serve alcoholic beverages, including bars, restaurants, liquor stores and taverns.
Other Negligent Parties
If the investigation of a car crash results in findings that other negligent parties may also be at fault for your injuries, you may be able to add them as defendants as well. For example, if one of the cars had a manufacturing defect that made the collision much worse, it may be possible to sue the car maker.
There are a number of factors to consider in civil litigation suits that follow in the wake of drunk driving accidents. If you believe you may have a claim that stems from a car accident, you may want to seek the advice of a personal injury attorney to help you understand your legal options. Call 615-859-2223 today for a FREE consultation regarding your case with an experienced drunk driving accident attorney at The Law Office of Eric Beasley.