If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a drunk driving auto accident, we would first like to express our sincerest condolences. Someone’s reckless acts caused an immeasurable amount of heartache and grief, and no one should ever have to go through that. That is why the experienced personal injury attorneys at Andrews, Bernstein & Maranto, PLLC want nothing more than to help victims and their families get back on their feet. Contact us today and we will fight aggressively to recover the full compensation that you deserve. Let our experience and dedication work for you.
Drunk Driving Auto Accidents | What to Do
After being involved in a car accident caused by a drunk driver, clients often ask about special circumstances and unique aspects of these types of claims. It is very important to cooperate with the D.A.’s office and the police investigation. Clients should also appear at any court dates of which they’re made aware and preserve all evidence regarding property damage estimates. Sometimes, the D.A. gauges the extent of a victim’s injury based on medical bills. You can also potentially sue for punitive damages, especially when alcohol consumption caused the injury or accident.
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Drunk Driving Auto Accidents | Bringing a Claim Against a Bar
After involvement in an accident with a drunk driver who had been in a local bar or restaurant, clients will often ask if they can make a claim that reaches beyond that driver. Can the bar or restaurant also be held responsible?
New York State law calls this a Dram Shop Action which, essentially, holds a bar owner liable and considers him negligent if—based on investigation—it can be proved that somebody on their premises was served alcohol while visibly intoxicated. Early on, your attorney will conduct a deposition to learn such things as who that driver was with, whether he had been there before, whether he is a regular, who was serving him, and how long he had been there. Other relevant, albeit complicating, factors may arise if the offending driver had also visited other bars.
Were you injured in an auto accident caused by a drunk driver? Contact our experienced Buffalo car accident lawyers today to schedule a free consultation and get the compensation you deserve.