Part of what makes DUI charges in Fairfield County so overwhelming is the range of consequences you could face. That is why understanding the differences between civil and criminal charges can help you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
At Justin C. Pugh & Associates, our Fairfield County DUI accident lawyers are committed to protecting your rights and helping you get the best possible outcome. Keep reading to find out the difference between criminal and civil DUI accident charges in Connecticut and when these can overlap.
Fairfield County Criminal DUI Charges
Criminal charges can come about when an individual is accused of committing a crime, such as driving while under the influence. The purpose of criminal DUI accident penalties in Connecticut is to punish the offender and hold them accountable. The process involves the government prosecuting the individual for the accused crime, providing evidence beyond a reasonable doubt.
If the charges stick, the individual may face the following penalties:
- Jail time
- Fines
- License suspension
- Ignition interlock requirements
- Probation
- Mandatory programs
Because of the severity of these penalties, it’s essential that you get representation from a DUI injury accident attorney in Fairfield County. An attorney can help you understand what your rights are and can come up with a defense strategy on your behalf. They can help you get reduced penalties or may be able to get the charges dropped altogether.
Fairfield County Civil Charges
On the other hand, civil DUI penalties involve private parties, such as another driver or a business, instead of the government. For example, the plaintiff can pursue civil liability if they can prove the defendant caused harm or loss due to driving under the influence.
The purpose of civil DUI penalties is mainly to compensate the victim for their damages. Instead of being prosecuted by the government, as is the case with criminal charges, you will be sued by a private individual or entity. However, the private individual or entity will need to provide evidence that you hold the majority of the blame for their damages.
The primary penalty for civil liability is usually to pay for monetary damages, such as covering the cost of lost wages, pain and suffering, or medical expenses.
Even when it comes to civil DUI penalties, you still need to seek the representation of a DUI accident attorney. An attorney can help you build evidence to support your side of the story, especially if both parties share a measure of fault.
Insurance Issues in DUI Accident Cases
A consequence of a DUI accident that you may not immediately notice has to do with insurance. Although not a legal consequence, there are insurance penalties for
DUI accidents that can have a significant impact on your future.
For example, if you’re facing a civil lawsuit, your policy may not cover the total amount of damages, leaving you to have to pay out of pocket. Additionally, it isn’t uncommon for Connecticut car insurance policies to exclude coverage for accidents involving driving while under the influence.
Even after you have navigated these insurance issues, you may also have problems in the future. In most cases, your auto insurance will go up significantly after being charged with a DUI. Your insurance company may also decide to no longer insure you, and you may have a hard time finding an insurance company that will provide you with insurance.
When Criminal and Civil DUI Charges Overlap
When facing DUI accident charges in Fairfield County, you need to be aware that you could face both criminal and civil penalties at the same time. This isn’t uncommon if there is another party that was involved in the accident, such as another driver.
Depending on the incident, the state of Connecticut may press criminal DUI charges against you if there is evidence that you were driving while under the influence. If the accident involved another driver, that driver can also file a civil lawsuit against you.
Both civil and criminal cases proceed independently, which means that you could be facing both types of penalties at once.
When this is the case, it is more important than ever to get representation from a DUI accident attorney. Your attorney can help you navigate both types of cases, protecting your rights and helping you to get a fair outcome for both situations.
Hire an Experienced DUI Injury Accident Attorney in Fairfield County
DUI accident charges in Fairfield County can become quite complicated, especially if you’re navigating both criminal and civil consequences. A Fairfield County DUI accident lawyer can help you better understand the DUI accident penalties you may be facing and the best possible course of action.
At Justin C. Pugh & Associates, we are here to provide clarity and expert criminal DUI accident defense for our Fairfield County clients. For representation from a DUI injury accident attorney, contact us today at (203) 658-6251 or by filling out our online form.
FAQ Section
Can I face both criminal charges and a lawsuit after a DUI accident?
Yes. Although criminal charges and civil lawsuits are not combined, you could face both at the same time after a DUI accident. This could result in you being held responsible for both criminal penalties and monetary damages.
Does a DUI accident automatically mean jail time in Connecticut?
No, most first-time DUI offenders will not have to face any jail time. However, this may not be the case for repeat offenders or first-time offenders where there are aggravating circumstances.
Will my insurance cover damages from a DUI accident?
This will depend on your insurance policy, as some policies exclude coverage for any type of accident involving driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Also, even if your coverage applies, it may not cover the total amount of damages you owe after a civil lawsuit.
How soon should I contact a DUI lawyer after an accident?
Generally, you should try to hire a DUI lawyer as soon as possible, preferably the same day or the day after the accident. Legal representation is one of your rights, so don’t hesitate to request the presence of a lawyer.