Determining who is responsible for damages sustained in a drunk driving accident can be a difficult process, especially if there may be multiple parties accountable. This is illustrated by a recent case in West Virginia where a woman brought lawsuits against multiples businesses and individuals after a drunk driving accident. In motor vehicle accidents that cause injury, victims and families may be entitled to file a civil claim.
The claimant was injured in an accident that was apparently caused by a drunk driver. The driver was arrested and charged with driving while intoxicated and DUI causing injury. The victim alleges that she spent 13 days in the hospital, including time in an intensive care unit. Understandably, would typically result in significant medical bills and other expenses. She seeks both compensatory and punitive damages.
Several business were named in the lawsuit, including various breweries and vendors who sold alcohol at a local Oktoberfest. The lawsuit claims that the defendants knew that the person who caused the accident was excessively drunk, yet they continued to serve him alcohol. It is alleged that the defendants acted recklessly and negligently since they knew the man intended to drive after leaving the event.
If an individual suffers serious injury, financial harm or emotional damage due to the negligent or reckless acts of another person, he or she has the right to explore the option of seeking financial compensation. Drunk drivers and other parties deemed responsible can be held accountable for the consequences of motor vehicle accidents. A complete evaluation of an accident by an experienced personal injury attorney can determine if multiple parties may be liable for the financial losses incurred by a West Virginia victim.
Source: wvrecord.com, “Woman sues town, breweries after drunk driver causes wreck“, Kyla Asbury, Nov. 4, 2015