Bakersfield Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Our Bakersfield Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers Protect The Rights Of Injury Victims
Getting injured in a drunk driving accident can leave you with physical, emotional, and financial burdens that may feel impossible to overcome. You don’t have to go through the recovery process on your own. Our Bakersfield drunk driving accident lawyers are here to guide you through the legal system and help you seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. Call Arash Law at (888) 488-1391 for a free case evaluation.
Despite laws prohibiting drunk driving, many continue to put their lives at risk. Our drunk driving accident attorneys can help assess the negligent parties involved, explain your legal options, and guide you through the claims process.
Why Work With Our Bakersfield Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers
Our Bakersfield drunk driving accident attorneys are dedicated to guiding clients through the legal process with knowledge, care, and professionalism. Here are some key reasons why working with our team may benefit you:
- Experience and Legal Knowledge — Our attorneys have handled a wide variety of accident cases and possess in-depth knowledge of California law, including local statutes that may apply to drunk driving accidents.
- Contingency Fee Structure — We work on a contingency fee basis, so clients do not pay legal fees upfront. Our fee is collected as a portion of the recovery if the case is successful. This arrangement allows injury victims to pursue a claim without immediate legal costs. Other expenses, such as court filing fees, expert witness fees, or medical record requests, may still apply and are explained at the start of representation.
- Personalized Support — We place emphasis on communication and client care. Our staff and case managers are available to provide updates, answer questions, and keep clients informed at every stage of the process.
What initially seemed like a routine rear-end collision, commonly known as a “fender bender,” turned into a significant settlement with high maximum limits for a client who suffered lower back disc injuries. The case was resolved just two weeks before the scheduled trial commencement.– BRIAN BEECHER
How Our Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys Can Help You
Insurance settlement offers may not always cover the full extent of a person’s injuries and damages. Individuals who are unfamiliar with their rights might accept less than what they could otherwise pursue under the law.
At Arash Law, our Bakersfield drunk driving accident attorneys can help you navigate the claims process. Our team can assist with gathering documentation and explaining your legal options.
We offer a wide range of services, including:
- Investigation — We help collect and review evidence related to your drunk driving accident, such as police reports, witness statements, and photographs of the scene.
- Case Assessment — Our attorneys evaluate the impact of your injuries and other damages, helping you understand the factors that may influence your claim.
- Negotiation — We can communicate with insurance companies on your behalf and discuss potential settlement options based on the documented facts of your case.
- Court Representation — If a case proceeds to trial, our attorneys can provide guidance on the process and assist in presenting evidence and information relevant to your claim.
- Personalized Assistance — Our accident lawyers in Bakersfield can guide and support you throughout the process. They can help you understand your options and next steps during a challenging time.
How Our Lawyers Prove Negligence In A Drunk Driving Accident Case
If the defendant was driving under the influence when the accident happened, the concept of negligence per se may apply. This means that negligence is assumed if:
- The defendant violated a law or regulation.
- This violation directly caused the plaintiff’s injuries.
- The law was designed to prevent the type of injury the plaintiff suffered.
This assumption can be challenged. However, if negligence per se is proven, the plaintiff only needs to show the extent of their damages to receive compensation. Our Bakersfield drunk driving accident attorneys can assist by gathering and reviewing evidence that supports your claim, including:
- Obtain the police report.
- Interview witnesses.
- Work with accident reconstruction specialists.
- Search for surveillance videos in the area.
- Examine photographs and videos taken at the accident scene.
Parties That Can Be Held Liable For A Drunk Driving Accident
While drunk drivers are typically held responsible for accidents they cause, other parties may also be partially or fully accountable. Here are some of them:
- Parents — Under California’s “negligent entrustment” laws, parents can be held liable if they knowingly allow their minor children to drive while intoxicated or unlicensed.
- Bars, Clubs, and Restaurant Owners — California law limits Dram Shop liability, but establishments can be held accountable if they knowingly serve alcohol to minors or obviously intoxicated individuals.
- Party Hosts — Social hosts in California are not typically liable for damages caused by an intoxicated adult guest. However, if a social host serves alcohol to a minor, they may be responsible for any injuries or property damage the minor causes while driving drunk.
- Drunk Driver’s Employer — Employers may be held responsible under the legal doctrine of respondeat superior if the employee was acting within the scope of their employment when the accident occurred. For example, if a delivery driver in Bakersfield is drunk while performing work duties, the employer might share liability.
Identifying all responsible parties in a drunk driving accident can be complex. Experienced Bakersfield drunk driving attorneys can help you navigate this process by reviewing the circumstances of the accident, assessing potential liability, and guiding you through the claims process.
Recoverable Damages For Victims Of Drunk Drivers
Insurance settlement offers may not always account for the full scope of your losses. It is important to understand your rights and the options available for pursuing compensation after an accident. Our car accident lawyers can assist by helping you identify and document damages that may be recoverable, including:
- Medical expenses include the costs of treatments, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitation, such as physical therapy and chiropractic care.
- Lost wages, including loss of future wages, if the injury results in long-term or permanent disability.
- Costs of repairing or replacing damaged property.
- Pain and suffering, including emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, and loss of quality of life.
If a drunk driver causes the death of a loved one, surviving family members may have the option to file a wrongful death lawsuit. This type of lawsuit can seek compensation for losses such as loss of companionship, emotional distress, and financial impacts resulting from the fatal accident. Our Bakersfield drunk driving attorneys can guide you through the legal process and assist with documenting your claim during this difficult time.
What To Do After A Drunk Driving Accident
It’s natural to feel uncertain about what steps to take after a drunk driving crash. The most important thing is to stay calm and take the right steps to protect yourself. Bakersfield personal injury lawyers recommend doing the following:
- Call 911 — Prioritize safety. Move to a safer place and check yourself for injuries. It is always advisable to have paramedics check your injuries, even if they seem minor.
- Report the Accident to Proper Authorities — Contact the Bakersfield Police Department and ensure an official report is filed. Notify the attending officer that you believe a drunk driver struck you. Describe any indications of intoxication, such as slurred speech or the smell of alcohol.
- Document Everything — If possible, collect any relevant information, including the drunk driver’s name, telephone number, license plate number, and insurance details. Gather witness contact information, if any. Take photos of the accident site and the damage. Keep track of your medical expenses, treatments, and other costs.
- Seek Medical Attention — See a physician as soon as possible. Ensure you consult your doctor about your injuries and follow the treatment plan strictly. Keep all appointments, including those with specialists.
- Consult with Personal Injury Lawyers — Reach out to Bakersfield drunk driving accident attorneys to discuss your options. They can provide guidance on the claims process and assist with gathering necessary documentation while you focus on your recovery.
Gomez v. PG Transportation (settled on 8/11/2023) – settlement involving a man who was struck by a car resulting in a mild traumatic brain injury as well as other orthopedic injuries.– TINA ESHGHIEH
Statute Of Limitations For Drunk Driving Accident Cases
The statute of limitations sets the legal deadline for filing a claim after an accident. In California, the statute of limitations for bringing a personal injury case after a drunk driving collision is two years from the date of the incident. If you fail to file your lawsuit within this timeframe, you may lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries and damages.
There are, however, some exceptions to this rule that could shorten or extend the deadline. Since these rules can be complex, it is helpful to consult with an attorney early to understand how they may apply to your case.
If you are asking yourself, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer for my drunk driving case?” the answer is often yes. Statute of limitations deadlines can be confusing, and an experienced attorney can help you understand the timeline and guide you through the necessary steps to help protect your rights.
Drunk Driving Accident Statistics
Driving under the influence of alcohol remains one of the greatest threats to road safety in California. In 2021, there were 1,370 alcohol-related deaths statewide, representing a 16% increase from 2020. These fatalities accounted for nearly one-third (32%) of all traffic-related deaths.
According to provisional data from UC Berkeley’s Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS), there were 355 incidents of alcohol-related fatalities and injuries in Bakersfield in 2023, averaging 293.6 cases annually over the past five years.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a crash involving a drunk driver, you may want to seek legal guidance. A Bakersfield drunk driving accident attorney can explain your rights and discuss what forms of compensation may be available under California law.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Is My Drunk Driving Accident Case Worth?
Determining how much a drunk driving accident case is worth can be complex, as various factors influence the compensation you may receive. While it’s challenging to pinpoint an exact amount, the following factors typically play a key role in the value of your claim:
- The extent and severity of injuries sustained.
- The scope of your current and future medical treatments.
- Lost wages and income.
- Your ability to work following the collision.
- The extent of property damage.
- The accident’s impact on your quality of life.
If you were injured by an impaired driver, our experienced Bakersfield drunk driving accident attorneys are here to help. They can help review your case, identify factors that may affect your claim, and explain your options for pursuing compensation for your losses.
How Long Will It Take To Settle My Drunk Driving Accident Case?
There are several factors affecting the settlement timeline for a drunk driving incident claim. These factors include the complexity of the case, the legal procedures involved, and the willingness of the parties to settle. A Bakersfield drunk driving accident attorney can help you understand the general process and provide guidance on what to expect based on the specifics of your case.
Will My Drunk Driving Accident Case Go To Trial?
Many drunk driving accident cases are resolved through settlements outside of court. In some situations, however, an agreement may not be reached, and the case may proceed to trial. The outcome depends on the specific facts and circumstances of each case. A Bakersfield drunk driving accident attorney can explain the process and represent your interests if litigation becomes necessary.
A Family Member Was Killed By A Drunk Driver. Do I Have Any Legal Options I Can Pursue In Bakersfield?
Yes. Under California law, certain family members may have the right to file a wrongful death claim after losing a loved one in a drunk driving accident. These claims can seek compensation for losses such as funeral and burial expenses, the value of financial support the deceased would have provided, and the emotional impact of losing their companionship and guidance.
Eligibility to file a wrongful death claim is limited by law, generally to spouses, domestic partners, children, or, in some cases, other close relatives who were financially dependent on the victim.
Since these cases are governed by strict rules and deadlines, it may be helpful to consult a Bakersfield wrongful death attorney to understand your rights and the options available.
How Much Will It Cost To Hire An Accident Attorney In Bakersfield?
Many accident attorneys in Bakersfield work on a contingency fee basis. This means you are not required to pay legal fees upfront. Instead, the attorney’s fee is typically collected as a percentage of the recovery if the case is resolved successfully.
It’s important to note that there may be other case-related costs, such as court filing fees, expert witness expenses, or charges for obtaining medical records. These costs are usually discussed at the start of the case, so you know what to expect.
Our attorneys can explain the fee arrangement and any potential case-related costs in detail during your initial consultation.
Should I Accept A Settlement From My Insurance Company For A Drunk Driving Accident?
It’s not always advisable to accept the first settlement offer without careful review. Insurance companies may propose an amount quickly, but it might not fully account for all of your losses, including medical expenses, lost income, or long-term care needs.
Before agreeing to a settlement, it is important to understand the full extent of your damages and the legal options available. Speaking with a Bakersfield drunk driving accident attorney can help you evaluate whether the offer is fair and whether additional compensation may be pursued.
Contact Our Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers In Bakersfield
If you or a loved one is injured in a drunk driving accident, you do not need to navigate this challenging time alone. Arash Law can provide guidance and support as you explore your legal options. Our Bakersfield attorneys have experience handling a wide range of drunk driving accident cases and can assist with assessing potential claims and navigating the legal process.
You may call our Bakersfield drunk driving accident attorneys at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I have a case?” form. Our team also handles other types of personal injury cases, including Uber and Lyft accidents, truck collisions, motorcycle crashes, pedestrian accidents, slip and falls, dog bite cases, and more. We provide legal services in neighboring locations, including Oildale, Lamont, Arvin, Shafter, Wasco, Taft, Delano, and Tehachapi.
