Although not a formal contract, a driver’s license might be viewed like an implicit agreement. In exchange for driving privileges, a licensed driver is expected to obey the rules of the road and practice safe habits behind the wheel.

True, to err is to be human, and an occasional fender-bender may be statistically hard to avoid. However, a drunk driving accident goes beyond statistical odds. A driver whose abilities are impaired by alcohol has no business getting behind the wheel.

Lawmakers share this attitude, and have passed laws criminalizing drunk driving. Consequently, a drunk driving crash victim may have to appear at depositions or court hearings in the criminal case, in addition to pursuing his or her own recovery in a civil lawsuit against the offending driver. A law firm experienced in both the criminal and civil aspects of a drunk driving accident can help you navigate the process.