Minneapolis Drunk Driving Accident Attorney 

Get Direct, Compassionate Support After a Drunk Driving Accident

If you or a loved one has been injured by an intoxicated motorist in Minneapolis, you are not alone. Drunk driving accidents are among the most devastating but most preventable crashes on Minnesota roadways. At Butwinick Injury Law, we are committed to holding impaired drivers—and any responsible third parties—fully accountable. Our mission is to give victims the legal support, resources, and compensation they deserve.

Serving clients throughout Minneapolis and the surrounding communities, our firm provides aggressive, compassionate representation for those harmed by alcohol-related collisions. When you need a Minneapolis drunk driving accident lawyer, we’re here to fight for you.

If you are seeking a truly client-focused experience, here is what you can expect from Butwinick Injury Law:

• Direct work with Attorney Bob Butwinick: No associates or handoffs. Every client partners with Bob from start to finish.
• 25+ years’ trial and litigation experience: We know Minnesota courts, laws, and how to build a case for success in Minneapolis—not just quick settlements.
• Results you can see: Our history of multi-million dollar recoveries demonstrates our ability to pursue the full value of your claim.
• Boutique service paired with transparent communication: We are known for providing clear, compassionate, and honest updates. You are never left in the dark about your case.

Call (763) 415-7462 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation.

Minnesota Drunk Driving Laws

Minnesota has strong laws in place designed to discourage impaired driving and protect the public. Understanding these laws is critical for pursuing compensation after an accident.

Minnesota’s Legal Alcohol Limits

• 0.08% BAC for most adult drivers
• 0.04% BAC for commercial drivers
• 0.00% BAC for drivers under age 21 (Zero Tolerance Law)

Even if the driver’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is below the legal limit, they may still be considered impaired if alcohol or drugs affected their ability to operate a vehicle safely.

Criminal vs. Civil Liability

A common misconception is that a drunk driver must be convicted of DUI for victims to pursue a civil claim. This is not true.

• Criminal charges punish the offender.
• Civil claims compensate the victim.

Even without a conviction, a victim can still pursue financial damages.

Enhanced Penalties for Severe Harm

Under Minnesota law, DUI charges may be enhanced if:

• The driver had a high BAC (0.16% or more)
• A minor was in the vehicle
• The crash caused severe injury or death
• The driver has past DUI convictions

These factors may support a stronger civil case because they indicate extreme negligence or reckless disregard for human life.

Proving Liability Against a Drunk Driver

To successfully recover compensation, your attorney must prove the impaired driver was negligent. Minnesota uses a comparative fault system, meaning compensation can be reduced if a victim shares responsibility. This makes building a strong case essential.

Evidence Used to Establish Impairment

A skilled Minneapolis drunk driving accident lawyer may use:

• Police reports and arrest records
• Breathalyzer and blood test results
• Field sobriety test findings
• Eyewitness statements
• Surveillance or traffic camera footage
• Bar or restaurant receipts
• Expert accident reconstruction

Establishing Causation

It must be shown that the driver’s impairment directly caused the accident. For example:

• They failed to stop at a red light
• They swerved into another lane
• They crashed while speeding or driving recklessly

Damages You May Recover

Victims of drunk driving accidents may be entitled to compensation for:

• Medical bills and future medical care
• Lost wages and reduced earning ability
• Property damage
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Wrongful death damages (for families of deceased victims)

At Butwinick Injury Law, we take immediate steps to preserve evidence and build a compelling case from day one.

Dram Shop & Social Host Liability in MN

Minnesota has unique laws that allow victims to pursue compensation not only from the drunk driver but also from certain third parties who contributed to the intoxication.

Dram Shop Liability

Under Minnesota’s Dram Shop Act, a licensed establishment may be held responsible if:

• They illegally sold or served alcohol to the driver, and
• That illegal sale contributed to the intoxication that caused the accident

Illegal sales include serving:

• A visibly intoxicated person
• A minor under 21
• Someone after bar hours
• Bars, restaurants, and liquor stores can all be held accountable.

Social Host Liability

Minnesota also allows victims to take legal action against social hosts who:

• Provide alcohol to minors
• Allow minors to consume alcohol on their property

This law does not apply to providing alcohol to adults, but it does apply in cases where underage drinking leads to an alcohol-related crash.

Why These Claims Matter

Dram shop or social host claims can significantly increase the compensation available—especially when the drunk driver has minimal insurance coverage.

Drunk Driving Accident FAQs

Do I need a DUI conviction to file a claim?

No. A civil claim for damages does not require a criminal DUI conviction.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Minnesota’s statute of limitations for injury claims is generally six years, though dram shop claims have shorter deadlines—often within one year. Contact an attorney as soon as possible.

Can I still recover damages if I was partially at fault?

Yes, as long as you are less than 50% at fault. Your compensation will be reduced proportionately.

What if the drunk driver doesn’t have insurance?

You may still recover compensation through:

• Uninsured motorist (UM) coverage
• Dram shop claims
• Personal assets of the at-fault driver

Is it worth hiring a lawyer for a drunk driving accident case?

Yes. These cases often involve multiple liable parties, complex evidence, and significant damages. An attorney ensures you pursue every available compensation source.

Call a Minneapolis Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Today

At Butwinick Injury Law, we know the devastation drunk driving causes. Our team is here to support your recovery, protect your rights, and aggressively pursue justice.

If you’ve been injured by an impaired driver in Minneapolis, schedule a free consultation today. Let us fight for the compensation you deserve.