Close-up of a person holding a green bottle in one hand and gripping a car steering wheel with the other. The individual's wristwatch is visible. The scene suggests that the person may be drinking alcoholic beverages while driving.

This Labor Day, many motorists around New York State will make the poor decision to get behind the wheel after consuming one or more alcoholic beverages. Please continue reading and speak with our knowledgeable New York personal injury attorneys to learn more about drunk driving accidents, what to do if you are injured in one, and how we can help you fight for the compensation you need to heal. Here are some of the questions you may have:

What should I do if I have been injured by a drunk driver?

If you are injured by a drunk driver, try and take the following steps:

  1. Call the police to the scene of the accident. They will administer field sobriety tests, as well as a potential breathalyzer test to determine whether the other motorist was truly under the influence of alcohol at the time of your accident.
  2. Ask any witnesses for their names and phone number.
  3. Take pictures of the scene of the accident.
  4. Receive immediate medical treatment and ask your doctor for all documentation concerning your injuries.
  5. Retain the services of an experienced Westchester County personal injury attorney who can work to fight for the compensation you deserve.

What are the dram shop laws in New York State?

Essentially, the dram shop laws in New York State prohibit all establishments from serving alcohol to anyone who is either under the age of 21 or who is visibly intoxicated at the time they request an alcoholic beverage. Therefore, if you and your attorney can prove that the establishment in question, for example, served a minor alcohol, and that minor then got in his or her car and caused your accident, there is a very good chance that you may hold the establishment liable in a third-party lawsuit.

How long will I have to sue a drunk driver for an injury in New York?

If you are looking to sue a drunk driver for an injury, you must do so within the state’s statute of limitations. Since the statute of limitations for personal injury claims in New York is, generally, three years, you will, generally, have three years from the date of your accident to sue the party responsible for your injuries. Do not wait past the three-year mark, for if you do, you will most likely be permanently time-barred from suing. Our firm is ready to fight for the compensation you deserve and need to heal today–all you have to do is ask.

CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED WESTCHESTER COUNTY FIRM

Hausman & Pendzick effectively represent victims of negligence in Westchester County and across the state of New York. We understand how challenging life can be without financial compensation for serious injuries you have wrongly sustained. If you need a knowledgeable and skilled personal injury attorney to help you recover compensation after an accident, contact Hausman & Pendzick today.