Drunk driving collisions are often the deadliest and most serious motor vehicle crashes. Every day, an average of 50 people in the United States are killed in motor vehicle crashes that involve substance-impaired drivers. DUI crashes that involve severe injuries might look like an open and shut case. However, like many motor vehicle collisions, even DUI crashes can involve tricky and confusing circumstances with a lot of moving parts. As Arizona’s injury lawyers, we, at Torgenson Law, have resolved numerous cases for victims of DUI crashes. Our years of experience practicing personal injury law in Arizona provide us with a unique understanding of considerations involved in DUI crashes. Today, we impart some of that knowledge on you…
First of all, if a drunk driver causes your collision and injuries, you may be entitled to punitive damages. The purpose of punitive damages is to punish a liable individual for willfully or recklessly endangering the life of another and otherwise deter the individual from partaking in such behavior again. Even if the adverse was driving below the .08 legal limits at the time of the crash, a jury in Arizona could still award punitive damages to the injury victim. This should serve as a reminder to beware of the low-ball offer from insurance companies, as the insurance company may be choosing to ignore their insured’s exposure to punitive damages.
In addition, another important question to ask following a DUI collision is where was this driver drinking beforehand? Under certain circumstances, Arizona’s dram shop liability laws allow injury victims to pursue their injury claims against the bar, restaurant, or liquor store that sold or served the alcohol to the drunk driver. For example, let’s say a bartender continued to serve alcohol to an individual who was obviously intoxicated. If that individual then leaves the bar, runs a red light, and causes a motor vehicle crash, the bar could be legally responsible for any injuries the drunk driver causes.
At Torgenson Law, we have years of experience dealing with victims of reckless driving. We understand the ins-and-outs of Arizona personal injury law, which allows us to effectively and efficiently pursue every avenue of potential recovery. As your Arizona Injury Lawyers we will guide you through a resolution of your injury claim to get you the compensation you deserve. If you or a loved one are victims of a DUI car crash and sustain injuries, call us at (602) 726-0747.
John Torgenson is a highly experienced personal injury lawyer with over 20 years of practice in Arizona. He earned his Bachelor’s degree from the University of Utah and his Juris Doctor from Notre Dame. John has a proven track record of securing substantial verdicts and settlements, including an $8.25 million recovery for a gunshot injury victim. His expertise has earned him AVVO ratings and recognition as a Super Lawyer.
John is also a sought-after lecturer on personal injury law, sharing his extensive knowledge with peers and aspiring attorneys. Beyond his legal practice, John is an avid golfer and actively supports organizations like the Military Assistance Mission, Arizona School for the Arts, Page Balloon Regatta, University of Arizona Foundation, Junior Achievement of Arizona, and the Tim Huff Pro Bono Golf Classic.
Passionate about advocating for injury victims, John dedicates his career to battling insurance companies and corporate interests, ensuring that the rights of those who are hurt are vigorously defended.
