“Dram Shop” refers to potential claims that may be made against a bar, restaurant, or even an individual, if they served alcohol to someone already visibly intoxicated and thereby contributed to the drunk driver’s crash and consequences to victims. These are sometimes referred to as “liquor liability claims.” Oftentimes, drunk drivers cause horrific injuries and do not have enough insurance to cover the damage they have caused. We investigate many such cases to see if there evidence that an establishment contributed to “over-serving” an intoxicated person. Please be aware that these claims have strict notice requirements, time limitations and high evidence standards, so you should contact an attorney to review this type of claim immediately (even if it’s not our office).

This is often referred to as a hit-and-run case. If this happens to you or someone you know, immediately call 911 and inform the police so they can prepare an incident report and investigate the crime. Write down or take photographs of any information that can be helpful like a license plate or vehicle description.

If you have Oregon auto insurance of your own or in your family household, your policy includes “PIP” and “uninsured motorist’s coverage.” The PIP coverage will help pay your medical expenses and lost income (with limitations and conditions). The “uninsured motorist coverage” may help pay compensation for your pain and suffering, also subject to limitations and conditions. We can help explain how your insurance can help in hit and run situations.

A person injured by a drunk driver is the victim of a crime in Oregon, and there are resources available for you. The district attorney’s office for the county prosecuting the crime will probably contact you through its victim assistance program, and they can provide you helpful information. There is also the Crime Victim’s Compensation Fund, which is a government program to help with costs and expenses for crime victims.

In addition, the Oregon Crime Victim’s Law Center is a wonderful resource for victims to learn about their rights and to get assistance dealing with the court process. They will also often provide free legal assistance.

As a passenger you still have rights because you did not cause the crash and remain a victim of the conduct. For example, if the vehicle has Oregon auto insurance, you will qualify for PIP coverage that will help with medical expenses and lost wages (subject to conditions and limitations). Also, you are still entitled to seek fair compensation for your injuries. Even if the vehicle you were in did not have insurance, your own personal auto insurance may help. Each case is determined by its own particular circumstances, but we have handled many such cases successfully in the past.