Cleveland Drunk Driving Victim Lawsuits
A drunk or drug-impaired driving crash can change a life in an instant. Victims often face emergency treatment, surgery, time off work, chronic pain, and permanent limitations. If you were hurt by an impaired driver in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, or anywhere in Ohio, Triscaro & Associates can help you evaluate your civil claim and pursue compensation.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a driver under the influence of alcohol or drugs, contact us for a free and confidential consultation: request a consultation or call (440) 248-8811. We handle many injury matters on a contingency fee basis (no attorney fee unless we recover).
Why DUI Injury Cases Are Different
Impaired driving collisions frequently involve higher speeds, delayed reactions, and preventable risk-taking. In the civil case, proving impairment can strengthen liability and may support additional damages. We work to secure the key evidence early—police reports, toxicology records (when available), crash reconstruction facts, 911 calls, and witness statements—so the claim is positioned for fair resolution.
What Compensation May Include
Depending on the injuries and the evidence, damages in a drunk/drug-impaired driving injury case may include:
- Emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, and follow-up treatment
- Future medical needs and rehabilitation
- Lost wages and loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Permanent impairment, scarring, or disfigurement
- Property damage and out-of-pocket losses
- In fatal cases, wrongful death damages and related claims
Other Potentially Responsible Parties
The impaired driver is not always the only party who may be legally responsible. Depending on the facts, we evaluate whether additional liability and insurance coverage may exist, including:
- Negligent entrustment (e.g., providing a vehicle to someone known to be unsafe)
- Employer / business involvement (e.g., work-related driving, company vehicles)
- Commercial driver issues (e.g., regulated drivers and safety rules)
- Other contributing negligence (e.g., unsafe maintenance or roadway factors, when supported by evidence)
Employer Liability in Drunk Driving Cases
In some cases, an employer may share responsibility when an employee causes a crash while driving for work or when the employer knew (or should have known) the employee posed a risk to public safety. These cases can involve vicarious liability and related doctrines, and they often require careful investigation into hiring, supervision, driving history, and compliance records.
Punitive Damages in Drunk Driving Cases
Drunk driving can also expose defendants to punitive damages under Ohio law in appropriate circumstances. Punitive damages are designed to punish and deter particularly egregious conduct. Whether punitive damages are available depends on the facts and proof. We evaluate collectability and coverage issues so the claim is pursued strategically.
What To Do After a DUI Crash
- Get medical care first. Follow treatment instructions and keep records.
- Preserve evidence. Photos, witness names, vehicle damage, and receipts help prove damages.
- Do not rush into statements. Insurers may ask for recorded statements—consider speaking with counsel first.
- Track symptoms and time missed from work. A simple journal and wage records can be important later.
- Act promptly. Time limits apply, and early investigation is often critical in serious crashes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still have a civil case if the driver is charged criminally?
Yes. A criminal DUI case and a civil injury claim are separate proceedings. The civil case focuses on compensation for your losses.
How much does it cost to hire your firm?
We offer free and confidential initial consultations, and many injury claims are handled on a contingency fee basis (no attorney fee unless we recover). Terms are discussed during intake.
How long do I have to bring a claim?
Time limits can apply and vary by claim type. If you suspect an impaired driver caused your injuries, it is best to speak with counsel promptly to protect your rights.
If you or a loved one has been a victim of a drunk or drug-impaired driving crash, contact us today—and let us be your advocate.
Disclaimer: This page provides general information and is not legal advice. Every case is different, and results depend on specific facts and evidence.
