Brooklyn Drunk Driving Accident Attorney

Injured in a Crash Caused by an Intoxicated Driver?

Every year, countless lives are devastated by drunk driving accidents in Brooklyn and across New York. These collisions often cause catastrophic injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship for victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been harmed in a car accident caused by an impaired driver, you should not have to shoulder the burden alone.

At Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C., we are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable and securing maximum compensation for victims. Our experienced team understands the complexities of New York law and is prepared to fight aggressively on your behalf.

Contact us today at (718) 866-3186 to get started by scheduling a free case review.

New York Drunk Driving Laws

New York has strict laws designed to deter and punish impaired driving. Under New York Vehicle and Traffic Law § 1192, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. For commercial drivers, the limit is 0.04%, and for drivers under 21, New York’s Zero Tolerance Law sets the limit at just 0.02%.

Key criminal charges include:

• Driving While Intoxicated (DWI): Operating with a BAC of 0.08% or higher.
• Aggravated DWI: BAC of 0.18% or higher.
• Driving While Ability Impaired (DWAI): Impairment due to alcohol or drugs even below the legal BAC limit.

While criminal penalties may include fines, license suspension, and jail time, these punishments do not compensate victims for their injuries. That’s where civil claims come in—working with our Brooklyn drunk driving accident attorney ensures you pursue the financial recovery you deserve.

Proving Liability Against a Drunk Driver

Even if a driver is criminally convicted of DWI, victims must still establish liability in a civil lawsuit or insurance claim. Proving fault may involve:

• Police Reports: Evidence of BAC levels, officer observations, and sobriety test results.
• Witness Testimony: Statements from passengers, bystanders, or other drivers.
• Accident Reconstruction: Expert analysis of how alcohol impairment caused the crash.
• Medical Records: Linking your injuries directly to the collision.

In many cases, intoxication itself is compelling evidence of negligence. However, insurers often fight to limit payouts, making it essential to have a lawyer who can build a strong case and challenge unfair tactics.

At Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C., we collect and preserve critical evidence, negotiate aggressively with insurance companies, and, if necessary, take your case to trial to secure justice.

New York Dram Shop & Social Host Liability

Drunk drivers aren’t the only parties who may be held responsible. Under New York’s Dram Shop Law (General Obligations Law § 11-101), bars, restaurants, and liquor stores can be liable if they sell alcohol to:

1. A visibly intoxicated person, or
2. Someone under 21 years old,
3. and that individual goes on to cause a crash.

Similarly, social hosts who knowingly provide alcohol to minors can also face liability.

This means that in some cases, victims may recover damages not only from the impaired driver but also from the establishment or individual who contributed to the intoxication. Our firm carefully investigates whether dram shop or social host liability applies, helping maximize your potential compensation.

Recoverable Compensation in Drunk Driving Accident Claims

Victims of drunk driving accidents in Brooklyn may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical expenses (current and future care)
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Emotional distress
• Loss of consortium (for spouses and families)

In particularly egregious cases, courts may also award punitive damages to punish the drunk driver and deter similar conduct.

Why Hire Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C.?

Choosing the right attorney can make the difference between a denied claim and a fair recovery. At Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C., we provide:

• Local knowledge of Brooklyn courts and insurers
• Aggressive investigation and evidence gathering
• Proven experience in DUI-related injury cases
• Compassionate support for victims and families

We fight tirelessly to ensure our clients receive the justice and financial support they need to rebuild their lives.

Drunk Driving Accident FAQs

Do I need a conviction to file a civil claim?

No. Even if the drunk driver avoids criminal conviction, you can still pursue a civil lawsuit for damages. The burden of proof in civil cases is lower than in criminal cases.

How long do I have to file a claim in New York?

Under New York law, most personal injury claims must be filed within three years of the accident. Wrongful death claims generally must be filed within two years.

Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?

Yes. New York follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation is reduced by your percentage of fault, but you can still recover damages even if you were partly responsible.

What should I do immediately after being hit by a drunk driver?

Call 911, seek medical attention, gather evidence if possible, and contact a Brooklyn drunk driving accident lawyer as soon as possible.

Can I sue the bar that served the drunk driver?

Possibly. If the bar or restaurant served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person or a minor, you may have a valid dram shop claim.

Speak With a Brooklyn Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Today

The aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming, but you do not have to face it alone. At Law Office of Seni Popat, P.C., we are dedicated to standing up for victims and their families. Our legal team will fight for the maximum compensation you deserve while you focus on recovery.

Call us today for a free consultation with a skilled Brooklyn drunk driving accident lawyer and learn how we can help you pursue justice.

If you need advice, supportive guidance, or want to learn what the next step is right for your case, call (718) 866-3186 to take your first step toward recovery and peace of mind.