Tragic – 100% Preventable

Of all the types of vehicle-related accidents, those caused by impaired drivers are particularly tragic because they are 100% preventable. If you have been injured by a driver operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or illegal or prescription drugs, there will be both criminal and civil proceedings against the impaired driver.

On the criminal side, the driver will face charges under the Criminal Code of Canada related to driving while impaired and causing bodily harm. The driver may or may not plead guilty and face fines, the loss of his or her license, and/or a jail sentence.

Civil Lawsuits

Completely separate from the criminal side, a victim may commence a civil lawsuit against the impaired driver. It is through this type of lawsuit that monetary awards may be achieved to compensate for medical expenses and loss of income. Non-economic awards can also be won to compensate for pain and suffering and the loss of enjoyment of life.

If you have been injured by an impaired driver, it is the police and the Crown lawyers who prosecute impaired driving charges and handle the criminal aspects of the matter. At Van Dyke Law Office, we help people injured by impaired drivers pursue civil actions.