Jersey Shore Personal Injury and Employment Specialists

Understanding the Drunk Driving Victims’ Bill of Rights

On Behalf of | Jun 24, 2015 | Drunk Driving Accidents |

If you or a family member were injured in an automobile accident with a drunk driver, you may feel as though the entire situation is out of your control. The fact that every DUI accident is entirely preventable can be infuriating, and dealing with the pain and suffering that often follows such incidents is the biggest challenge that many people face in their lives. In these difficult times, it is important to understand that you do have legally protected rights as an accident victim. That is why we here at Escandon, Fernicola, Anderson & Covelli, L.L.P., are committed to advocating on behalf of drunk driving victims and personal injury claimants in the state of New Jersey.

No matter the nature or severity of your injuries, being the victim of drunk driving can be an incredibly scary and painful experience. The state of New Jersey recognizes this fact, and extends a number of legal rights and protections to drunk driving victims. According to the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety, the Drunk Driving Victims’ Bill of Rights applies in all cases involving DUI automobile collisions from the time the incident occurs to the final court ruling in a case.

Following a DUI collision, you as a drunk driving victim are entitled to receive medical assistance for your accident injuries. You are also allowed to make statements to law enforcement officers about the details of the accident, as well as have access to the copies of the subsequent accident report. Beyond that, you are entitled to information regarding the DUI suspect’s court appearances and sentencing. You must be provided with any decisions in the case relating to the defendant’s release from custody and/or conviction.

Another key component of the New Jersey Drunk Driving Victims’ Bill of Rights is that it allows you to submit an oral or written statement to the court for consideration during the defendant’s sentencing and probation proceedings. In addition to describing the nature and severity of your injuries, your statement can describe the financial hardships and emotional or psychological trauma that the accident caused you and your family. Learn more about drunk driving liability by visiting our web page any time.