Drunk Driving Accidents

Based in Salt Lake City and representing clients throughout Utah and Idaho, The Gooch Firm, P.C. has extensive experience handling personal injury claims arising from drunk driving accidents. We understand that being involved in an accident with a drunk driver often triggers feelings of anger and frustration, along with the typical stress of dealing with an auto accident. Our attorneys and staff are sensitive to these emotions, working to lessen our clients' burdens through professional and attentive legal support.

Drunk Driving Injury Claims

Despite heightened public awareness of the dangers of drunk driving, and increasingly strict regulations and harsh penalties, drinking and driving remains one of the leading causes of auto accidents in Utah and Idaho. Regardless of the circumstances that led to the accident or what injuries occurred as a result, alcohol-related crashes are rarely excusable because the accident likely could have been prevented, or the damages mitigated, if the person had not driven while intoxicated.

In Utah and Idaho, a driver can be charged with a DUI (driving under the influence) if he or she operates a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher. Intoxicated driving is illegal, and drunk driving accidents often occur because alcohol impairs a driver's judgment and reflexes, increasing the likelihood that he or she may cause an accident or be unable to avoid a dangerous situation. While car and truck collisions are the most common type of drunk driving accidents, they may also involve motorcycle accidents, bicycle injuries, and pedestrian accidents. Injuries can be catastrophic, such as brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and wrongful death.

Dram Shop & Liquor Liability

"Dram shop" refers to a drinking establishment such as a bar, tavern, lounge, or restaurant, or anywhere alcohol may be purchased and consumed on the premises. Both Utah and Idaho impose liability on persons or drinking establishments that illegally sell alcohol to a patron who subsequently causes an accident. A dram shop violation may include selling alcohol without a license, selling or serving to someone less than 21 years of age, selling to someone without a license or identification, selling after hours, or selling to someone obviously intoxicated.

If illegal service or sale results in someone's injury or death, the at-fault individual or establishment may be held legally responsible. In most cases, it is enough to show that giving alcohol added to the existing intoxication, and ultimately led to property damage or personal injury. However, establishing that the drunk driver was visibly intoxicated at the time the alcohol was bought is often difficult. Liquor establishments generally assert that a reasonable person would not have been able to tell that the person was obviously intoxicated. Our attorneys have successfully handled claims against alcohol servers and sellers, ensuring that our clients receive compensation from every potentially liable party.

Seek Experienced, Effective Representation

If you have been involved in an accident with a drunk driver, our attorneys and staff will do everything in our power to maximize your financial recovery, enabling you to afford the care you need for yourself and your family. Please contact The Gooch Firm, P.C. for a free initial consultation. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if we recover for you. Se habla español.