Drunk Driving Accidents
Oftentimes, preventable accidents are the most challenging for the injured person to deal with, as is the case with drunk driving accidents.
Minnesota law states that a driver who operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of .08 or above, can be charged with DWI (driving while intoxicated). Alcohol is one of the leading causes of car crashes in Minnesota. Not only are drunk drivers responsible for the injuries suffered by others, but liquor stores, bars and hosts/hostesses can also be held responsible.
You may have heard of the term “Dram Shop” related to drunk driving collisions. Minnesota dram shop laws enforce liability on liquor establishments and/or individuals for the illegal sale of alcohol that contributes to the injuries sustained by another person. The illegal sale of alcohol includes selling alcohol to individuals under 21, selling alcohol to already intoxicated persons and/or selling alcohol without a license.
The statute of limitations on a dram shop case in Minnesota is two years. Punitive damages is another term that is frequently associated with drunk driving collisions. In circumstances where it is proven that a Defendant acted willfully, maliciously or fraudulently, a Plaintiff may be awarded “punitive damages” in addition to compensatory or actual damages. Punitive damages are meant to punish the Defendant for their behavior.
Otten Law Offices understands the laws encompassing drunk driving collisions and will vigorously pursue all compensation that the injured victim is entitled to and will seek compensation to the fullest capacity for the injured.
Have a question about an injury from a drunk driving accident?