New York Drunk Driving Accident Laws
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How New York Drunk Driving Accident Laws Differ from Others
No matter where you’re located, drunk driving accidents are serious business. When a driver chooses to get behind the wheel while intoxicated, they put themselves and those around them in danger. If you’ve been injured because of a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation.
Drunk driving accidents are considered personal injury cases in the state of New York. However, if you’re going to pursue a settlement after a drunk driving accident, you need to know how the case is different. Let’s take a look at four of the major reasons why a drunk driving case is different in New York state.
1. Drunk drivers can be sued for damages.
In a typical auto accident in New York, you will need to file for compensation on your own insurance, regardless of what driver is at fault. However, in a drunk driving accident, you are able to sue the driver for damages. This can include damages to your vehicle, the cost of your medical bills and expenses, as well as pain and suffering.
2. The driver may face both criminal and civil charges.
In most personal injury cases, the individual at fault would not face criminal charges. However, with a drunk driving case, the driver may face both criminal and civil charges. While these two cases are different, they typically overlap in a few ways.
3. Other parties may be held liable.
After a drunk driving accident, other parties may be held responsible for the accident. In addition to the driver, the bar or restaurant where the individual left from may need to assume responsibility.
4. You may seek punitive damages.
Punitive damages are meant to punish and deter the responsible party from doing the same thing again. This means you’re able to seek punitive damages after a drunk driving accident. However, you must seek punitive damages from the driver, not the insurance company.
If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident, having a team of expert personal injury attorneys helping you through the case can ensure you get the compensation you need and deserve. Contact us at Held & Hines, LLP to begin talking about the details of your case.
Posted in: Auto Accidents, Car Accidents, Personal Injury
