The short answer is, yes. The at-fault driver cannot prevent the jury from hearing about him or her being drunk just because he or she admits fault. This is known as a “stipulated liability case.” It is a defense tactic to try and keep evidence of reckless conduct from being heard by the jury. Why is this important? Evidence of reckless, dangerous conduct by the drunk driver not only helps to prove liability, but also may lay the groundwork for a punitive damages award. Punitive damages are designed to deter bad conduct in the future, and are separate from monetary damages that compensate a personal injury victim for his or her injuries.