Despite strict laws, Maryland continues to experience about 7,000 car crashes per year involving at least one driver’s use of alcohol or drugs, according to its most recent crash data. Victims of drunk driving crashes may be able to file a Maryland personal injury lawsuit against a drunk driver to recover financial compensation for their injuries. In a civil suit against a drunk driver, an injured party must prove that the driver was negligent and that the driver’s negligent actions caused the victim’s injuries. A victim may be able to recover compensation for medical bills, property damage, wage losses, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Evidence of a DUI arrest or conviction, or of a guilty plea to a traffic citation is useful evidence in a civil case. In Maryland, guilty pleas in court to traffic citations are generally admissible as evidence in a civil case. Even in the event that the driver does not face a criminal conviction, a civil case may still be possible. The standard in a civil case is a preponderance of the evidence. The preponderance of the evidence standard is lower than the reasonable guilt standard in criminal cases, which means that a civil case may be won even if the driver is not convicted of a crime. There may still be evidence that the driver was under the influence and contributed to the crash. Drunk drivers can face serious criminal consequences, in addition to a civil suit. Under Noah’s Law, which took effect in October 2016, an ignition interlock device must be installed for any driver convicted of driving under the influence.
In addition to suing the driver, a civil suit may be brought against other responsible parties, such as a bar that served the drunk driver or another person who allowed the driver to drive while intoxicated. In any case, the victim still has to prove that the party acted negligently and that their negligent actions contributed to the plaintiff’s injuries.
Famous Tattoo Artist Arrested After Deadly Crash
Daniel Silva, a famous tattoo artist, was recently arrested after a car crash that killed YouTube personality Corey La Barrie, one source has reported. According to law enforcement, Silva was driving in Los Angeles at night when he lost control of the car and hit a tree. He reportedly tried to flee the scene but was stopped by witnesses. La Barrie was a passenger in the car and died at a hospital. Police characterized the tragic crash as a DUI fatal traffic collision.
Maryland Personal Injury Lawyers Fighting for the Rights of Victims
If you or a loved one has been injured in a Maryland drunk driving accident, one of the first things you must do is contact a skilled Maryland personal injury lawyer. An injured victim can retain a Maryland car accident lawyer to pursue compensation for all of their damages from the crash. At Lebowitz & Mzhen, our personal injury lawyers strive to ensure that responsible parties pay the maximum amount recoverable to car accident victims. To set up a free initial consultation regarding a personal injury claim, call us toll-free at (800) 654-1949 or contact us online.