Long Island Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Drunk driving accidents are some of the most devastating — and most preventable — tragedies on the road. When a person chooses to get behind the wheel while impaired, they endanger everyone around them. If you or a loved one has been injured by an intoxicated driver, an experienced Long Island drunk driving accident lawyer at Jacobson Law can help you hold them accountable and pursue the compensation you need to recover.
Legal Help After a Drunk Driving Crash in Long Island
Whether the accident occurred on the Southern State Parkway, Sunrise Highway, or a quiet residential street, the consequences of a drunk driving crash can be life-altering. Victims may suffer permanent injuries, emotional trauma, and financial devastation. At Jacobson Law, we bring aggressive advocacy and compassionate representation to every case we handle.
While the criminal justice system may pursue charges against the impaired driver, that process does not provide compensation to victims. Our firm steps in on the civil side to pursue damages through a personal injury or wrongful death claim. We conduct a thorough investigation, gather key evidence, and build a trial-ready case that gives you the strongest chance at a full recovery.
Common Injuries Caused by Drunk Driving Accidents
Because impaired drivers often make erratic, high-speed, or reckless maneuvers, their crashes tend to result in serious harm. Victims of these accidents frequently experience:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
- Spinal cord injuries or paralysis
- Broken bones and internal bleeding
- Disfigurement or permanent disability
Our drunk driving accident lawyers in Long Island understand the medical and financial toll of these injuries. We work closely with doctors, vocational experts, and life care planners to ensure all current and future needs are accounted for in your claim.
Who Can Be Held Liable in a Drunk Driving Case?
In most cases, the impaired driver is the primary liable party. However, additional claims may be possible, including:
- Dram shop liability: Bars, restaurants, or establishments that over-serve visibly intoxicated patrons
- Social host liability: Private individuals who knowingly serve alcohol to minors or already-intoxicated guests
- Negligent entrustment: Owners who allow intoxicated individuals to drive their vehicles
At Jacobson Law, we evaluate every angle of your case to uncover all possible sources of compensation and pursue the maximum recovery available under New York law.
Recoverable Damages in Drunk Driving Injury Claims
Victims of drunk driving accidents are entitled to recover damages for a wide range of losses, including medical expenses, lost income, diminished earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and in severe cases, punitive damages. When a crash results in a fatality, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and more.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drunk Driving Accident Claims
Can I still file a claim if the drunk driver was arrested?
Yes. A criminal case is separate from your personal injury claim. You do not have to wait for the criminal process to finish to pursue compensation through a civil lawsuit. In fact, the sooner you act, the better your chances of preserving evidence and protecting your rights.
What if the driver wasn’t charged or convicted of DUI?
You may still have a valid personal injury claim. The legal standard in civil cases is different (a “preponderance of the evidence”), and you don’t need a criminal conviction to prove negligence in court.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In New York, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically three years from the date of the accident. However, wrongful death claims and dram shop cases may have shorter timeframes. It’s important to consult an attorney as soon as possible.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one was injured in a crash caused by a drunk driver, don’t wait to seek justice. Contact Jacobson Law at (631) 661-2030 or visit our Contact Us page for a free consultation. Our Long Island drunk driving accident lawyers are ready to fight for your rights and pursue the full compensation you deserve. You owe us nothing unless we win your case.
