Oregon gives drunk driving victims powerful tools beyond an ordinary injury claim.
Civil and Criminal Are Separate
The drunk driver's criminal case is separate from your civil claim for compensation. You can pursue damages regardless of the criminal outcome, and a conviction can strengthen your civil case.
Punitive Damages
Drunk driving is the kind of reckless conduct that can support punitive damages in Oregon, which punish the wrongdoer and can increase recovery beyond ordinary compensatory damages.
Dram Shop Liability
Oregon law may hold a bar or social host liable for over-serving a visibly intoxicated person who then causes a crash. These claims add another source of recovery in serious cases.
Have questions about your own situation? Get a free, confidential case review — you pay no fee unless you win. Call 973-566-5599.
This article is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice. For guidance on your specific situation, consult a licensed Oregon attorney.