DUI Accidents & Alcohol Server Liability
Contact Our Salt Lake City Car Accident Attorneys Today
Some of the most serious automobile collisions are drug and alcohol related. In the United States, about 28 people die every day just from crashes involving alcohol. Getting behind the wheel of a car while legally drunk is more than just a criminal act. It is one of the highest forms of negligence that leads to serious injuries and death. DUI laws in Utah and throughout the country are more stringent than ever, but that does little to address the civil damages related to seriously injured individuals or family members who have lost a loved one.
At Elegal, we go beyond the criminal aspects of a drunk driving accident to hold the negligent party financially accountable for your injuries. Criminal penalties do not compensate victims—but a thorough and compellingly put forth injury claim can. Our Salt Lake City car accident lawyers have recovered millions in relief for our clients over the years and we're ready to explore your options in the wake of your DUI accident.
Victims do deserve a voice in this process. Call our team at to start exploring your legal options.
The Facts About DUI
About 31% of all motor vehicle fatalities in the United State are alcohol related. One of the reasons DUI crashes are so deadly is that drugs and alcohol affect a person’s coordination and judgment. As a result, even people who would never intentionally hurt anyone become potentially lethal if they drive under the influence. The more intoxicated a driver is, the more dangerous he or she becomes. We have handled numerous cases where the drunk driver is so impaired that he or she drives the wrong direction on the freeway and collides with oncoming traffic. The results of these crashes are devastating.
All drivers, including impaired drivers, are liable for any damage they cause as a result of negligent driving. However, an intoxicated driver who hurts someone in an accident can be liable, not only for the actual damage caused but for punitive damages. Punitive damages are an additional category of damages that are intended to punish and deter wrongdoing. Intoxicated drivers can be liable for punitive damages if it is shown that their decision to drive under the influence was knowing and reckless. Whether a drunk driver will ultimately be liable for punitive damages requires careful investigation into the facts and analysis of the law.
Seeking Maximum Damages
At Elegal, we have the experience and resources you need to prove the facts of your drunk driving accident case. While the impaired driver is clearly at fault, there may be more to the story. The bar that they left prior to the accident may have knowingly served too much alcohol, resulting in a dram shop liability claim against that establishment.
Only the most seasoned and knowledgeable drunk driving accident attorneys can get through these complexities and hold the responsible parties accountable. As a preeminent personal injury law firm in Salt Lake City, we have that ability and are dedicated to seeing that justice is served for our injured and grieving clients.
We're ready to help you navigate your claim. Contact us today to request a free case evaluation now.