You have the right to file a civil lawsuit against:
• The drunk driver
• Bars/restaurants (dram shop)
• Social hosts
• Employers (company vehicles)
• Vehicle owners
The civil case is separate from any criminal charges and has different standards of proof.
Your Right to Sue
Civil vs. Criminal Cases
Key differences:
• Criminal: Prosecution seeks jail/fines
• Civil: You seek monetary compensation
• Criminal: "Beyond reasonable doubt" standard
• Civil: "Preponderance of evidence" (51%)
• Both can proceed simultaneously
• Criminal: Prosecution seeks jail/fines
• Civil: You seek monetary compensation
• Criminal: "Beyond reasonable doubt" standard
• Civil: "Preponderance of evidence" (51%)
• Both can proceed simultaneously
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to wait for criminal case to end?
No. Start your civil case immediately. The cases are independent, though a criminal conviction can help your civil case.
Related Resources
→
Same Day Appointment Accident Doctor
Need to see a doctor after a car accident today? We connect DUI accident victims with doctors offering same-day appointments.
dui accidents→
24/7 DUI Accident Lawyer Los Angeles
DUI accident lawyer available 24/7 in Los Angeles. Day or night, weekends, holidays – we're here when drunk driving accidents happen.
dui accidents→
DUI Accident Attorney Near Me - No Fee Unless We Win
DUI accident attorney working on contingency. You pay nothing unless we win your case. Free consultation, no upfront costs.
dui accidents→
Stop Sign Violations in California: Legal Rights & Claims
Injured by a driver who ran a stop sign? Learn your legal rights, how to prove fault, and maximize your California car accident claim. Free consultation.
car accidents→
Unsafe Lane Changes in California: Your Legal Rights
Injured by an unsafe lane change in California? Learn your legal rights, how to prove fault, and maximize your compensation. Free consultation.
car accidents→
Road Rage Accidents in California: Legal Rights & Claims
Injured in a road rage accident in California? Learn your legal rights, how to prove fault, and maximize your compensation. Free consultation available.
car accidentsExplore Related Topics
Why Choose Our DUI Accident Lawyers?
💰
No Win, No Fee
You pay nothing unless we win your case
📞
24/7 Availability
Always here when you need us
🏆
Punitive Damages Experts
Maximize your DUI claim recovery
⚖️
Free Consultation
Get expert advice at no cost