Lawyers Representing Victims of Boston Drunk Driving Accidents

In 2016, drunk drivers killed 96 people in Massachusetts, accounting for 31 percent of all traffic fatalities in the state. Although this was nearly one-third fewer alcohol-related deaths than in the prior year, our state has a long way to go to stop these senseless tragedies. Feinberg & Alban PC was established more than 70 years ago to help victims of personal injury. We are passionate advocates for families who have lost their loved ones and individuals who have suffered serious injuries because a reckless, intoxicated person climbed behind the wheel.

Dram shop laws hold third party alcohol venders liable

Under Massachusetts dram shop laws, an accident victim may sue an alcohol vendor for damages caused by a drunk driver who was over-served by the establishment. The bar, nightclub or restaurant may be held liable for such damages as:

• Medical treatments, rehabilitation and hospital bills
• Lost income and future earning capacity
• Property damages for vehicular repairs or replacement
• Value of household services the injured person can no longer perform
• Pain and suffering

Our firm conducts a thorough investigation of your claim and pursues your maximum possible damages. We also negotiate with hospitals and doctors to reduce your medical bills after a Boston auto accident.

Melanie’s law should be better enforced

A 13-year-old girl named Melanie Powell was crossing the street on a warm July day in 2003 when she was struck and killed by a drunk driver who had a history of operating under the influence (OUI) convictions. A 2005 law that imposes stricter penalties on drunk drivers was named in her honor. Harsher penalties and administrative sanctions that apply under Melanie’s Law include:

• OUI on a suspended license — The law imposes a one-year minimum mandatory jail sentence and up to two-and-one-half years’ jail and loss of license for one year.
• OUI driving restrictions — A business is prohibited from hiring a person with a suspended license. Vehicle owners are barred from letting a person with a suspended license operate their vehicles and from allowing a person who is required to have an ignition interlock device to use a vehicle that does not have one.
• Child endangerment enhancements — A drunk driver who has a child under the age of 15 in the car can be charged with both OUI and child endangerment while operating under the influence and can be sentenced to enhanced penalties under both.

Unfortunately, Melanie’s Law is rarely used, and repeat drunk drivers continue to be a substantial risk on Boston’s roadways. Our lawyers push for justice under the criminal system and fight for your rightful damages in the civil courts.

Learn more about your rights to compensation when you are the victim of a Boston drunk driving accident

Hold the drunk driver accountable for your injuries and demand the full compensation from your insurance company that you are entitled to. Learn how Boston-based Feinberg & Alban PC can help you recover fair compensation for your injury. Call our personal injury firm at 617-232-5950 or contact us online for your free consultation.