Injured by a Drunk Driver in Arkansas: Civil Claims and Dram Shop Liability

Being hurt by a drunk driver is uniquely devastating because the harm was so preventable. Arkansas law gives victims strong tools to pursue full justice.

Criminal vs. Civil Cases

The state may prosecute the drunk driver criminally, but that is separate from your civil claim for compensation. Even a criminal conviction does not automatically pay your medical bills or lost wages — you pursue those through a civil injury claim.

A DWI conviction or evidence of intoxication strongly supports your civil case for negligence.

Punitive Damages

Because drunk driving is reckless, Arkansas allows punitive damages in appropriate cases — money meant to punish the wrongdoer and deter others, on top of full compensatory damages. Arkansas's constitution protects these awards from arbitrary caps.

This can meaningfully increase the value of a claim against an impaired driver.

Dram Shop and Social Host Issues

In some circumstances, a bar or establishment that served a clearly intoxicated person may share responsibility. These cases are fact-intensive, so prompt investigation into where and how the driver became impaired can open additional avenues of recovery.

This article is general information about Arkansas law, not legal advice for your specific situation. For advice about your claim, request a free case review.

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