According to a recent article, a man has been charged with manslaughter and operating under the influence (OUI) following a fatal head-on collision in Gray. The crash took place around 11:30 p.m. on Portland Road near Sugar Maple Road. Jean Claude Nshimiyimana, 43, is accused of driving drunk in a 2022 Jeep Gladiator when he collided head-on with a 2019 Chevrolet Suburban traveling in the opposite direction. The driver of the Suburban, 50-year-old Daniel Fackrell of Cumberland, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two children in the Suburban sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were treated at Maine Medical Center in Portland.
From drunk driving accidents to incidents involving alcohol-fueled violence, alcohol-related injuries can have devastating consequences. At Peter Thompson & Associates, we are dedicated to helping victims of alcohol-related injuries seek justice and compensation for their losses.
Common Types of Alcohol-Related Injuries
Alcohol-related injuries can occur in various scenarios, often involving negligent or reckless behavior. Some of the most common types of injuries include:
- Drunk Driving Accidents: Drunk driving remains one of the leading causes of motor vehicle accidents in Maine. Intoxicated drivers have impaired judgment, slower reaction times, and reduced coordination, which can lead to catastrophic accidents involving other vehicles, pedestrians, or cyclists.
- Dram Shop Liability: Under Maine law, establishments that serve alcohol, such as bars or restaurants, can be held liable if they overserve a visibly intoxicated person who then causes injury to others. This is known as dram shop liability and is a crucial aspect of holding negligent establishments accountable.
- Assaults and Fights: Alcohol can escalate tensions, leading to physical altercations and assaults. If you were injured in a fight or assault involving someone who was overserved alcohol, the establishment could potentially be held liable for contributing to the incident.
- Boating Accidents: Just like on the road, operating a boat under the influence of alcohol is illegal and dangerous. Alcohol-related boating accidents can result in severe injuries or drownings.
Legal Rights and Responsibilities
Victims of alcohol-related injuries have legal rights that can help them recover compensation for their damages. It’s important to understand these rights and the steps you should take if you or a loved one is injured due to someone else’s alcohol-related negligence.
- Proving Negligence: In order to recover compensation, it must be proven that the defendant’s negligence directly caused the injury. For instance, in a drunk driving accident, this could involve showing that the driver’s intoxication was the primary factor leading to the crash.
- Dram Shop Claims: Establishing liability in a dram shop claim requires proving that the establishment served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated individual who then caused harm. Gathering evidence, such as witness statements and surveillance footage, can be crucial in these cases.
- Compensation for Damages: Victims may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. The specific amount will depend on the severity of the injuries and the impact on the victim’s life.
Steps to Take After an Alcohol-Related Injury
If you or a loved one has been injured in an alcohol-related incident, taking the following steps can help protect your rights and strengthen your case:
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Your health and safety are the top priorities. Prompt medical attention not only ensures your injuries are properly treated but also provides documentation that can be vital for your legal case.
- Document the Incident: Gather as much information as possible, including photos of the scene, contact information for witnesses, and any relevant details about the parties involved.
- Report the Incident: Depending on the situation, report the incident to the appropriate authorities, such as the police for a car accident or the Coast Guard for a boating accident.
- Consult with an Experienced Attorney: Navigating the legal complexities of alcohol-related injury cases can be challenging. Consulting with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney, like those at Peter Thompson & Associates, can help you understand your legal options and build a strong case.
How Peter Thompson & Associates Can Help
At Peter Thompson & Associates, our experienced personal injury attorneys are dedicated to helping victims of alcohol-related injuries seek justice. We understand the devastating impact these incidents can have on individuals and families, and we are committed to providing compassionate and skilled legal representation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in an alcohol-related incident in Maine, contact Peter Thompson & Associates today for a free consultation. Let us help you hold the responsible parties accountable and pursue the compensation you deserve. Give us a call at 207-874-0909 or visit our website now.