Illinois Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Holding Drunk Drivers And Enablers Accountable

Serious DUI crashes happen on interstates and local roads across Illinois, from I-80 and I-55 to I-57, I-74, and I-64, as well as in town centers and bar districts. Lipkin & Apter pursues claims against impaired drivers and evaluates whether a third party contributed to the harm under Illinois law.

Illinois Dram Shop And Third Party Liability

Some cases include a potential Dram Shop claim when a bar or restaurant unlawfully served a visibly intoxicated patron who then caused a crash. We analyze receipts, surveillance, and witness accounts to determine whether a separate action is available and how it fits with your negligence case.

Older man with beard signing document, woman smiles beside him at a table.

Evidence To Preserve

Police reports, field sobriety and chemical test results, bar receipts, surveillance video, and independent witnesses all matter. Early preservation requests help protect proof that can fade quickly in both rural and urban settings.

Comparative Negligence Still Applies

Illinois comparative negligence rules can affect recovery even in DUI cases. We work to establish clear fault and explain how percentages influence value so expectations stay realistic.

Car with two people, one holding a drink, under traffic lights.

What To Do After A Suspected DUI Crash

Seek medical care, request that toxicology evidence be preserved, avoid recorded statements to insurers, and contact Lipkin & Apter to discuss strategy and timelines.

Question mark inside a speech bubble.

Drunk Driving Accidents — FAQs

  • Can I sue the bar that served the drunk driver in Illinois?

    Illinois Dram Shop law allows claims against establishments that unlawfully served an intoxicated person who then caused injury. These cases have specific limits and requirements that differ from standard negligence claims. Lipkin & Apter evaluates both the driver claim and any potential Dram Shop claim to maximize recovery.

  • What should I do if I suspect the other driver was impaired?

    Tell the responding officers about your observations and ask that testing be documented. Preserve photos, note bar receipts if you see them, and collect witness information. Contact our team so preservation letters for surveillance and toxicology records go out quickly.

  • Do comparative negligence rules still apply in DUI crashes?

    Yes, Illinois comparative negligence can reduce recovery by your share of fault even when the other driver was impaired. Objective evidence and reconstruction help establish clear responsibility. We explain likely scenarios and how percentages may affect settlement value

  • Will the criminal DUI case help my civil claim?

    A criminal case can provide useful evidence, but your civil claim is separate and focuses on compensation. Waiting on the criminal matter may delay key preservation steps in your civil case. Lipkin & Apter monitors both tracks and pursues the civil action on your timetable.

  • What compensation can I seek after a drunk driving crash?

    You can pursue medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, future care, and in some cases punitive elements where allowed by law. If a Dram Shop claim applies, separate statutory limits may affect that portion. We analyze all available avenues to recover the full measure of your losses.

Statewide Representation For DUI Injury Cases

We assist clients across Illinois including Rockford, Naperville, Aurora, Joliet, Champaign Urbana, Springfield, Decatur, Peoria, and the Metro East.