Are there any civil liability options available to victims of drunk driving accidents?

Yes, victims of drunk driving accidents in North Carolina have multiple civil liability options available to them. In North Carolina, a driver can be held liable in civil court for any property damage, personal injury, and/or punitive damages the victim has suffered due to the negligent and/or intentional behavior of the drunk driver. Victims can pursue civil action against the driver as an individual or against the driver’s insurance company in order to receive compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, pain and suffering, lost wages, etc. A victim of a drunk driving accident can sue for both compensatory and punitive damages. Compensatory damages attempt to make the victim "whole" by awarding money to cover economic losses (e.g. medical bills and lost wages) as well as non-economic losses (e.g. pain and suffering). Punitive damages, on the other hand, are awarded to punish the drunk driver and serve as a deterrent against similar future behavior. In addition to pursuing civil action against the driver or the driver’s insurance company, victims of drunk driving accidents may also bring suit against a third party, such as a bar or tavern, if they were the source of the alcohol served to the drunk driver. The burden of proof in such an action is much higher; the victim must prove that the bar or tavern knew or should have known that its actions in serving alcohol to the individual was likely to cause injury to a third party. Ultimately, those affected by a drunk driving accident in North Carolina have multiple civil liability options available to them. It is important to consult with an experienced attorney to decide the best course of action to receive the compensation you deserve.

Are there any civil liability options available to victims of drunk driving accidents?

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