With the holiday weekend of Labor Day approaching, it is important to remember driver safety can save lives. While celebrating can be fun, it is important to not operate a vehicle afterward while under the influence of alcohol. This is because drinking and driving can cause dangerous accidents that can result in serious injuries or death. It is because of this that drivers can be held liable for damages. Continue reading below to learn more and contact an experienced New Jersey personal injury attorney for assistance with your case.
What Should I do After a Drunk Driving Accident?
After a drunk driving accident takes place, it is important to implement certain steps that can help to ensure a future claim. The first step is to call the necessary emergency services, such as medical services and the police. The police can draft an official report that details the accident. However, it is still important for the individual to gather their own evidence as well, such as pictures, video, witnesses information, etc. While medical professionals can conduct examinations on the scene, it is important to still see a doctor for an official diagnosis. This can also be used as additional evidence for a claim.
What is a Dram Shop Law?
In New Jersey, the law holds establishments and vendors liable for drunk driving accidents under certain circumstances. This is done under “dram shop law.” The law requires establishments and vendors to not serve or sell alcohol to anyone who is visibly intoxicated or under the age of 21. If they do so anyway and the individual causes an accident, the establishment can be held liable for certain damages in a third-party lawsuit.
How Long Do I Have to Sue?
When a drunk driving accident happens, injured parties often want to pursue legal action in order to recover compensation. In doing so, it is important to not wait too long, as there is a deadline known as the statute of limitations. If the individual fails to meet this deadline, they can lose their opportunity to pursue legal action entirely. In the state of New Jersey, the statute of limitations is two years from the date of the injury.
Contact our Firm
If you have been injured as a result of a defective product and wish to speak with an attorney, contact the Law Office of Christopher T. Howell, Esq. today.
