Connecticut drunk driving statistics paint an interesting portrait. On one hand, the number of people killed by drunk drivers in Connecticut is below the national average. On the other hand, of traffic accidents which lead to fatalities, a higher percentage of them involve alcohol than the national average. This is in line with Connecticut’s generally low rate of traffic accidents—but it also means that if you are severely injured, alcohol is more likely to be involved. If you are injured by a drunk driver in Connecticut, make sure you have an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side from the law firm of Leighton, Katz & Drapeau.
Negligence Per Se
Like many other places in the country, Connecticut law has provisions that hold drunk drivers accountable for their reckless, dangerous acts. Drunk driving is negligent “per se.” “Per se” is a legal term meaning that because the action is against the law, once it’s been proven that one driver was drunk, you don’t have to ask any other questions about how he was driving as he is considered culpable.
Drunk driving can also bring punitive damages into play. Normally, if you are injured, the purpose of a judgment is to make you whole—to pay you back for damages and injuries. But in punitive damages cases, the jury can award more than that amount in order to punish the bad actor. This hopefully will help make sure they don’t drive drunk again, as well as set an example for others. You should have an attorney with the experience to make sure you get the maximum award for your injuries, including any possible punitive awards.
What Other Penalties May Be at Issue?
Most significantly, drunk driving is a crime. Drunk driving can lead to a suspension of the driver’s license, fines, and even jail time. However, it’s important to remember that any criminal case is completely independent of a personal injury claim, which is handled in civil—not criminal—court. Being found guilty in a criminal case may make it more likely that the civil case will also be successful but it’s not an absolute. Also, even if a criminal case isn’t successful, a plaintiff in a civil case may still be able to prevail.
Additionally, Connecticut has what are called dram shop laws, which are laws that require bars or other places serving drinks to act responsibly when it comes to people who are obviously drunk. Having an experienced personal injury lawyer who knows the intricacies of Connecticut law—like the firm of Leighton, Katz & Drapeau—can make a significant difference in your case.
If You Were Injured in a Drunk Driving Accident Call a Connecticut Car Accident Attorney Today
If you suffered an injury as a result of someone else’s bad actions, make sure you hire an attorney with experience to get justice. Leighton, Katz & Drapeau is a firm that focuses on personal injury cases and can make sure you are compensated for your injuries. Contact us today for a free, no risk consultation at 860-875-7000. Serving the greater Hartford area.
