How do drunk driving accidents differ from other types of personal injury accidents?

Because criminal charges are usually involved, drunk driving accidents tend to be handled a little differently from a civil standpoint than straightforward personal injury cases. Felony DUI, the charge that most drunk drivers incur when they cause death or injury to an innocent person, is a crime that carries potentially serious penalties, including long jail sentences and heavy fines. However, although the criminal penalties may be stiff, the criminal court does not address victim compensation.

In order to collect damages from a drunk driver, the victim must file a lawsuit in civil court. The outcome of the criminal case does not change or impact the civil lawsuit. In most cases, negligence is evident, meaning that the victims have a strong case in civil court. However, the civil case can be complicated by the criminal matter in practical terms, particularly if the driver is sent to jail for an extended period of time. A personal injury attorney must be able to navigate the realities of both legal actions in order to recover damages for the victim.

The experienced DUI car accident attorneys at Demas Law Group, P.C., are ready to help you recover damages as soon as possible after your injuries. Located in Sacramento, the attorneys at Demas Law Group, P.C., have experience in navigating the complicated legal process of holding drunk drivers financially responsible for their actions.