We frequently see on the news the devastation that happens to someone who is hit by someone driving under the influence — which often means drunk. These are typically very bad accidents because the intoxicated driver is driving fast, not stopping at red lights or stop signs, and going the wrong way down a one way street, or an on-ramp or freeway.

When you’re injured because of a drunk driver, it’s critical to contact an attorney as soon as possible. Under Oregon Law, if the drunk driver was served alcohol at a bar, tavern or restaurant while he or she was visibly intoxicated, the business may also be at fault for your injuries. The law requires that the bar or tavern receive written notice that they served someone alcohol who is visibly intoxicated.

The more time that passes after a drunk driving accident, the more challenging it can be to find out where the drunk driver was drinking. Police reports seldom state where the driver had been drinking. Their focus is on documenting the fact that the driver was driving drunk. You need to consult an attorney as soon as possible to ensure that a proper investigation is completed within the required timeframe.