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Impaired Driving Lawsuits Seeking Justice Beyond Criminal Charges

  • Personal Injury
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Davidson Cahill Morrison LLP

The lawyers of Davidson Cahill Morrison LLP are expert courtroom advocates for a wide range of civil litigation matters including insurance law, medical malpractice, appeals, personal injury and municipal litigation.
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Tragic Death of a 15-Year-Old in Brampton

Imagine the heartbreak of losing a loved one to an avoidable tragedy. On a quiet evening on July 12, 2024, a 15-year-old girl’s life was abruptly cut short in Brampton, Ontario. She was fatally struck by an alleged impaired driver, leaving her family and friends devastated. Such incidents starkly highlight the serious consequences of drunk driving and emphasize the importance of seeking justice beyond criminal charges. This post will explore how punitive damages can serve as a powerful tool for families affected by impaired driving fatalities, offering a path to justice and deterrence.

Impaired Driving Laws in Ontario

Understanding the legal framework surrounding impaired driving is crucial for those seeking justice. In Ontario, impaired driving laws are strict, reflecting the seriousness of such offenses. The Criminal Code outlines severe penalties for drivers found operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These penalties include hefty fines, imprisonment, and driving prohibitions.

Legal Implications for Impaired Drivers

Impaired drivers face both criminal and civil consequences. Criminal charges aim to punish the offender and deter future violations. However, criminal proceedings do not always address the comprehensive losses suffered by victims and their families. This is where civil lawsuits come into play, particularly those seeking punitive damages.

Punitive Damages in Personal Injury Cases

Punitive damages are designed not just to compensate victims but to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct in the future. Unlike compensatory damages, which cover medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress, punitive damages focus on the offender’s egregious behavior. In cases of impaired driving, these damages can serve as a significant deterrent.

Types of Compensation Available

Victims and their families may seek various types of compensation. Compensatory damages cover tangible losses such as medical bills and funeral expenses. Punitive damages, on the other hand, go beyond these tangible costs to address the moral culpability of the impaired driver. Together, these compensations aim to provide a sense of justice and financial relief for the affected families.

The Role of Punitive Damages

How Punitive Damages Differ from Compensatory Damages

Compensatory damages aim to make the victim whole by covering the direct costs associated with the accident. Punitive damages, however, serve a different purpose. They are intended to penalize the wrongdoer for particularly reckless behavior and to act as a warning to others. This dual function makes them a crucial element in civil cases involving impaired driving.

Criteria for Awarding Punitive Damages

Not every case qualifies for punitive damages. Courts consider several factors, including the severity of the defendant’s misconduct, the harm caused, and the need for deterrence. In impaired driving cases, the court will look at the level of intoxication, prior offenses, and any aggravating circumstances. The court may even consider the related criminal conviction as a mitigating factor in awarding punitive damages to avoid punishing an offender twice. The aim is to impose an award that reflects the gravity of the wrongdoing and discourages future violations.

Importance in Deterring Future Incidents

Punitive damages play a vital role in deterring future impaired driving incidents. By imposing substantial financial penalties, courts send a clear message about the seriousness of such behavior. This deterrent effect is especially important in combating the persistent issue of impaired driving, ultimately contributing to safer roads.

Legal Process for Seeking Punitive Damages

Step-by-Step Guide on Pursuing Punitive Damages

Families of victims can pursue punitive damages through a civil lawsuit. The process begins with filing a claim in civil court, followed by gathering evidence to support the claim. This may include police reports, witness statements, and expert testimony. A personal injury lawyer can guide families through this complex process, ensuring that all necessary documentation is in place.

Evidence Needed

Successful claims for punitive damages require compelling evidence. This includes proof of the defendant’s impaired state, the circumstances of the accident, and the impact on the victim’s family. Detailed records and expert analyses can strengthen the case, highlighting the severity of the wrongdoing and its consequences.

Role of a Personal Injury Lawyer

A personal injury lawyer is indispensable in these cases. They provide expert legal advice, handle the intricate details of the lawsuit, and advocate for the maximum possible compensation. Their expertise ensures that the case is presented effectively, increasing the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

Insights from Legal Experts and Advocates

No Insurance Coverage for Punitive Damages

One significant challenge to the victims of impaired driving is the fact that there is no insurance coverage for punitive damages. There would in most cases be coverage for any compensatory damages awarded for impaired driving, however, any recovery for a punitive damages award would have to be personally collected from the offender. Often times, this person may not have any assets of significance to satisfy the award leaving the victim financially unsatisfied.

MADD Canada

The frequency of impaired driving is alarming. According to MADD Canada: “Every hour in Canada, an average of 9 federal criminal charges and provincial short-term licence suspensions are laid for alcohol or drug-impaired driving.” 

Conclusion

The devastating impact of impaired driving extends far beyond the immediate incident, affecting families and communities deeply. Punitive damages offer a vital avenue for justice, addressing both the tangible and moral dimensions of these tragedies. By pursuing punitive damages, victims’ families can achieve a sense of closure and contribute to broader efforts to deter impaired driving.

If you or a loved one has been affected by an impaired driver, it’s crucial to seek legal advice. Consulting a personal injury lawyer can help you understand your rights and the options available to you. Contact us today to take the first step towards justice and explore the potential for punitive damages in your case.

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