Catastrophic crashes caused by drunk drivers are devastating events that can lead to severe injuries, significant property damage and profound emotional trauma. In Oregon, victims of such accidents have specific rights and are generally in strong positions to pursue compensation and justice via legal action.
Even though civil and criminal matters are distinct in the U.S., it is important for victims to ensure that their accidents are reported to the police. A police report can serve as a consequential piece of evidence in any personal injury case. A report should include details about the crash, witness statements and an officer’s observations, such as the other driver’s intoxication levels.
Seeking compensation
Oregon law allows victims of drunk driving accidents to seek compensation for their injuries and losses. If you have been injured in a crash due to the recklessness of an impaired driver, you may be entitled to recover costs related to medical bills, rehabilitation, lost income and property damage as a result of your harm. In cases of extreme negligence – for example, if the impaired driver who struck you had a particularly high blood alcohol concentration at the moment of impact – you may also potentially be eligible for punitive damages, which are intended to punish the impaired driver and deter future instances of impaired driving.
Depending on the ins and outs of your case, besides filing a personal injury claim against the drunk driver, your legal team may encourage you to consider other potential sources of compensation. For instance, if a bar or restaurant served the driver alcohol when they were visibly intoxicated, you might have a claim against them as well, which you can file under Oregon’s dram shop laws.
Although holding responsible parties accountable after a catastrophic crash isn’t easy, it can be done. Seeking personalized legal guidance is a great way to get started.