An overview of civil lawsuits against drunk drivers in Cedar Rapids

Cedar Rapids, IA – Drunk driving is punished harshly by the government in Iowa. Penalties include jail time of up to one year, fines of over one thousand dollars, and a driver’s license suspension that can last up to a year for a first offense. These penalties increase if the person has prior convictions or there are other factors such as injuries to people hurt by the drunk driver. There can also be mandatory substance abuse treatment ordered by a judge. However, these are criminal penalties and it is possible that the driver can also face civil lawsuits to pay for any damage that they caused in an accident. The victim and their lawyer can file a personal injury lawsuit in the local court system which proceeds in a similar manner to other auto accident lawsuits.

Why is a civil lawsuit necessary?

People who were injured by drunk drivers may find that all of their costs are not always covered by auto insurance. This is especially true if there was a serious collision that caused long term injuries. The advantage of filing a civil negligence case is that the victim and their attorney can summarize all of these losses and argue that the defendant should have to pay for them. Criminal cases are also focused on punishing a person rather than getting compensation for victims, and restitution may not always be collected even when ordered by a court.

Advice from DUI accident lawyers

A lawyer who focuses on drunk driving accident cases may have to take a number of steps to assist their clients. This can include reviewing police and accident reports, looking at any evidence collected that will help prove the driver’s intoxication, and negotiating a settlement with the defendant’s lawyer or their insurance company. There may also be the possibility of arguing for punitive damages to punish the driver for their reckless actions. The attorney for the civil case for compensation does not need to show that the driver was convicted in criminal court to be successful in receiving money for their client. Although rare, a trial may also be necessary where the victim’s attorney needs to argue their case convincingly in front of a jury.

Injury lawyers in Cedar Rapids

Eells and Tronvold Law Offices is a firm that helps people who have been involved in auto accidents in the Cedar Rapids area. Those who want to speak with a lawyer about the process to receive compensation can schedule a meeting with the firm.

USAttorneys.com is a directory of lawyers in every jurisdiction in the country. People who need a referral to a licensed attorney in their area can call 800-672-3103 for assistance.

Firm contact info:

Eells and Tronvold Law Offices

1921 51st Street NE, Cedar Rapids, IA 52402-2400

319-393-1020