Tragic news. According to WDRB, a fatal crash between two SUVs occurred around 4 a.m. on Sunday, August 14, 2022. Louisville Metro Police Department responded to the incident, which occurred on Watterson Expressway near Breckenridge Lane. The vehicle occupied by the individual who passed away had engulfed in flames and the individual was pronounced dead at the scene.
Among other charges, 42-year-old Maria Lara was charged with murder and operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol. Lara was said to be drinking at a local bar off Preston Highway. According to a witness, Lara almost hit a concrete wall prior to the wreck and had been weaving.
When someone causes an accident while intoxicated on alcohol or drugs, anyone injured in the motor vehicle accident may be entitled to punitive damages against the at-fault intoxicated driver. Punitive damages are meant to punish and deter a person from engaging in that behavior in the future. There is no cap on punitive damages that a court can award to a victim in Kentucky.
Additionally, if the intoxicated person was drinking at a bar or some establishment prior to the wreck, the bar or establishment could possibly be liable for any injured person’s injuries if the intoxicated person was so intoxicated, and serving them more alcohol could lead to harm. Determining whether a reasonable person may infer someone is so intoxicated that serving them more alcohol could potentially cause harm to someone can be unclear in some situations. Obviously, if someone is so intoxicated he or she cannot stand up, it would be a huge risk for any establishment to continue to serve that person alcoholic drinks.
If you or a loved one have been injured in an accident caused by an intoxicated driver, a Louisville injury lawyer can investigate and determine if there is any potential liability against any local establishment, like a bar or restaurant. Security camera footage or eyewitnesses at the bar or restaurant may have a testimony that supports claims proving negligence against the establishment. Tate and his team can investigate you or your loved one’s case to determine if any liability rests with any establishment following an accident with a drunk driver. Don’t Wait. Call Tate! today to find out your legal options.
