Advocacy and Support for DUI Accident Victims

Understanding the Impact of DUI Accidents

Driving under the influence (DUI) remains a serious and preventable threat to public safety. Accidents caused by impaired drivers frequently result in severe injuries, fatalities, and significant emotional and financial harm to victims and their families. These incidents not only violate Arizona’s DUI laws but also create strong legal grounds for civil claims. For those affected, understanding their legal rights and options is an essential step toward securing justice and compensation.

At Garrison Law Firm, we are committed to holding all responsible parties accountable and securing the compensation you deserve. In Arizona, victims of drunk driving accidents may also have the right to pursue claims against bars, restaurants, or other establishments that served alcohol to the intoxicated driver under “dram shop” liability laws.

Legal Recourse for DUI Accident Victims

Victims injured by impaired drivers have the right to pursue compensation through a personal injury claim. This process typically involves demonstrating that the at-fault party was legally intoxicated and acted negligently, in violation of Arizona Revised Statutes § 28-1381 or similar DUI provisions. Damages available to victims may include reimbursement for medical costs, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and in some cases, punitive damages if the conduct was especially egregious.

A personal injury attorney plays a key role in establishing liability and pursuing maximum compensation. By understanding the applicable statutes, evidentiary standards, and procedural requirements, legal counsel can help victims assert their rights in accordance with Arizona law.

Dram Shop Liability in Arizona

Arizona’s dram shop laws are designed to encourage responsible alcohol service and provide additional avenues for recovery in drunk driving cases.

What is Dram Shop Liability?

Dram shop liability refers to the legal responsibility of establishments (such as bars, restaurants, or stores) that serve alcohol to individuals who are already obviously intoxicated or underage. If that individual then causes a car accident, the establishment may be held financially responsible for resulting injuries and damages.

Arizona Revised Statutes on Dram Shop Liability

The primary statute governing dram shop liability in Arizona is A.R.S. § 4-311. Under this law, a licensed establishment can be held liable if:

• The establishment sold or served alcohol to a person who was obviously intoxicated or under the legal drinking age.
• The intoxication was a proximate cause of the injury, death, or property damage.
• The injuries or damages were foreseeable as a result of the intoxicated person’s actions.

Key Points About Dram Shop Claims in Arizona

• Statutory Basis Only: The Arizona Supreme Court has ruled that dram shop claims must be brought under the statute (A.R.S. § 4-311); there are no longer common law dram shop actions in the state.
• Time Limits: Dram shop claims must typically be filed within one year of the injury or damage.
• Damages: Victims may recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, property damage, and wrongful death.
• Comparative Fault: Arizona allows claims against both the drunk driver and the establishment, even if the victim is partially at fault; damages may be reduced by the victim’s percentage of fault.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help

Working with a personal injury lawyer provides critical advantages for DUI accident victims. An attorney can:

• Conduct a thorough investigation of the crash, including reviewing police reports, medical records, witness statements, and toxicology results.
• Preserve and gather evidence such as surveillance footage, dash cam video, or breathalyzer data that supports the claim.
• Assess damages accurately, taking into account both immediate and long-term physical, emotional, and financial effects.
• Communicate with insurance companies and other parties to ensure that victims are not pressured into accepting inadequate settlements.
• Pursue litigation when necessary, preparing for trial and presenting a compelling case before a judge or jury.

Legal counsel also helps clients navigate time-sensitive legal deadlines such as Arizona’s personal injury statute of limitations, which generally requires a claim to be filed within two years of the accident.

The Challenges DUI Accident Victims Face

Victims of DUI accidents often experience not only physical trauma but also emotional stress and financial instability. In addition to recovering from injuries, they must deal with insurance disputes, legal procedures, and sometimes contentious opposition from defense attorneys. Navigating these complexities without legal support can be overwhelming.

Garrison Law Firm helps clients manage these challenges by handling the legal aspects of their case so they can focus on recovery. We work to ensure that the victim’s voice is heard and that their claim is presented clearly and effectively at every stage of the process.

Comprehensive Support for DUI Accident Victims

At Garrison Law Firm, our services extend beyond legal representation. We are committed to supporting clients through every phase of the post-accident journey. This includes not only pursuing compensation, but also providing clear communication, regular case updates, and guidance through related legal and insurance matters. Our approach is grounded in advocacy, compassion, and a thorough understanding of personal injury law as it relates to DUI incidents.

Let Garrison Law Firm Help You Navigate What’s Next

If you or someone you love has been injured in a DUI accident, you have legal rights and options. Garrison Law Firm is here to assist you with the legal process and help you move toward recovery and resolution. Contact us at (623) 915-1100 or fill out our online form to schedule a free consultation.