When you are hurt by a drunk driver, your car accident personal injury case is different. First there are punitive damages available under Utah law for DUI car accident cases.
Hurt by a Utah Drunk Driver? Hire Experienced Injury Lawyer Jake Gunter | DUI Car Accidents
When you’ve been injured by a drunk driver in Utah, your car accident case is unique. Unlike typical car accidents, DUI-related personal injury cases in Utah can qualify for punitive damages. Under Utah law, you’re entitled to seek these damages at a lower evidentiary standard in DUI cases. This means you only need to prove punitive damages by a preponderance of the evidence, rather than the more stringent “clear and convincing evidence” standard that applies to other cases (Utah Code Ann. 78B-8-201).
How Punitive Damages Work in Utah DUI Cases | DUI Car Accidents
Utah Code 78B-8-201 states that, normally, punitive damages are awarded only when you can show that the negligent party acted with willful or reckless disregard. However, for DUI cases, the requirements are adjusted, allowing you to seek punitive damages with a less rigorous evidentiary burden. This critical difference can significantly impact the outcome and compensation in your case.
Why Choose a Personal Injury Attorney for a DUI Car Collision?
Many DUI cases must go to trial to secure a fair compensation. Choosing a personal injury lawyer who’s prepared to take your case to a jury can make all the difference. Without a skilled trial attorney, your insurance claim may settle for less than what you deserve.
Dram Shop Liability in Utah DUI Cases
Utah also has Dram Shop Laws that allow victims of drunk driving accidents to hold liable the establishments or individuals who served alcohol to the driver before the accident. According to Utah Code Ann. 32B-15-201, Dram Shop Liability can apply if the drunk driver was served alcohol at a business or by an individual. However, these cases require detailed analysis and must be filed promptly due to potentially shorter statute of limitations under Utah Code 32B-15-301.
Get the Legal Representation You Deserve
If you’ve been injured in a DUI accident, personal injury attorney Jake Gunter has the experience and tenacity to fight for fair compensation, including punitive and Dram Shop damages. Call us today at (801) 373-6345 to discuss your DUI personal injury case.
Learn More About Utah Accident Lawyer Jake Gunter
For additional insights on Utah personal injury law and to get to know Jake Gunter better, check out these helpful videos:
- Meet Jake Gunter – Learn more about Jake Gunter’s background, experience, and dedication to helping clients throughout Utah.
- How to Choose a Utah Personal Injury Attorney – This video offers guidance on selecting the right personal injury attorney to ensure you receive effective representation.
- What Jake Gunter Does and Who He Represents – Discover the types of cases Jake Gunter handles and how he advocates for the rights of injured individuals statewide.
These resources will provide you with valuable information as you consider your legal options. For any questions or to schedule a free consultation, feel free to reach out to us directly.