DUI accident victims commonly think that once authorities charge the drunk driver with a crime, they don't need to take legal action to recover compensation for their medical expenses and other damages. But criminal DUI charges and personal injury claims require separate actions.
After a criminal DUI conviction, a driver will face monetary fines, jail time, and loss of their driver's license. The criminal court will probably not award victims any substantial financial compensation. You will need to seek compensation through a separate claim, whether through one or more insurance companies or in civil court as a personal injury lawsuit.
The outcome of the criminal case could help strengthen your civil claim if, for example, the court convicts the driver of a DUI. However, you don’t need a criminal conviction to hold the driver liable for the damages they caused you. A Dallas drunk driving lawyer at the Francis Firm can navigate the civil claims process and recover the compensation you deserve by negotiating with the insurance companies or representing you in civil court.