Crashes caused by drunk driving are unquestionably the fault of the person who was driving drunk. However, many could have been prevented if a responsible person had stepped in to prevent that person from getting behind the wheel.
If you or a loved one suffered serious injuries in a crash caused by a drunk driver, your expenses may far exceed what their insurance can cover or even what you could get by taking them to court. In Connecticut, you may be able to hold others liable as well.
Dram shop liability
Connecticut has among the strongest dram shop laws in the country. These laws allow licensed establishments like bars, restaurants and stores to be held liable if they provided alcohol to a person who then harmed or killed someone as a result of their intoxicated state. Under Connecticut law, establishments found liable could have to pay up to $250,000 in damages.
Social host liability
What if the drunk driver got into that state at a private party in someone’s home? Connecticut also has what’s known as a social host law. However, this law only allows pertains to those who are under 21.
Although the law doesn’t specifically state that a host can be held civilly liable, it firmly establishes that they are criminally responsible if an underage person consumes alcohol in their home – even if they didn’t know it.
Connecticut’s dram shop law has time limits for holding an establishment liable, so it’s important to determine what your options are for holding the appropriate party accountable after a drunk driving crash as soon as possible. It’s wise to have legal guidance.
