Inglewood DUI Victim Lawyers
We’ll review what happened and tell you what options may be available.
Or, get LIVE help now — call our free 24-hour accident hotline at (888) 488-1391
Inglewood DUI Victim Lawyers Who Can Explain Your Legal Rights After An Injury
Injured by a drunk or drugged driver? You may be eligible to pursue compensation. Contact our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers at (888) 488-1391. We’re ready to review your case. If it’s valid, we can handle all the complicated legal and insurance matters so you can focus on your recovery.
DUI accidents can happen anytime in Inglewood, especially around hotspots like SoFi Stadium and the L.A. Clippers’ new arena. A change in legislation permits alcohol service to VIPs at the Intuit Dome until 4 o’clock in the morning, extending two hours beyond the traditional closing time. This could heighten the risk of DUI occurrences.
If you were injured by an impaired driver, our team of Inglewood DUI victim attorneys can help you file a claim for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. With experience representing injured clients across California, we are committed to helping you pursue the compensation you may deserve under state law. Let our law firm stand by your side.
How Our Inglewood DUI Victim Lawyers Can Help
Our Inglewood DUI lawyers for accident victims are here to help as soon as you need us. We can offer skilled legal support and guide clients seeking monetary reparation. Our team is ready to take action, especially given the recent changes in local ordinances.
In August 2024, California’s governor signed a bill that allows Intuit Dome to serve alcohol to VIPs until 4 a.m., two hours after the standard last call in California, which is 2 a.m. While it’s not yet known how the new bill will affect the community, we understand the potential safety risks involved.
The extended drinking hours could contribute to excessive consumption, potentially increasing the chances of a customer making the reckless decision to drive drunk. These changes could exacerbate Inglewood’s existing issues with DUI.
After an accident, it can be confusing to know where to begin. Reach out to our injury law firm or complete our online form for a free case evaluation. We will assess the validity of your claim, clarify your rights, and explain your legal options.
Our attorneys advocate for the rights of DUI accident victims. We aim to demonstrate why impaired drivers should be held accountable for their blatant disregard for others’ safety by:
- Gathering evidence to demonstrate the driver’s intoxication.
- Establishing liability by proving that their drunk driving caused the accident.
- Calculating all your tangible losses like medical bills and lost income, as well as intangible ones like pain and suffering and PTSD.
- Negotiating for a settlement you deserve under California law.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
Reasons To Consult Our DUI Victim Attorneys
If you want to learn about your available legal options after being injured by an impaired driver, consider having our Inglewood DUI victim attorneys on your side. Our Inglewood injury law firm is here to help you communicate and negotiate with insurance companies so you can decide whether to accept or counter their settlement offers. Here are some of the reasons to consider consulting our personal injury law firm in California:
- In-Depth Understanding of the Law — Our car accident lawyers are well-versed in the legal aspects of personal injury, car crashes, and DUI cases. We work to use our knowledge and experience to handle even more complex cases.
- Personalized Attention — We tailor our strategy according to the specifics of the case and our client’s situation after a DUI accident. Our team will work to support you throughout the process and help make things more manageable for you.
- Dedicated Advocacy — Arash Law stands firmly against the reckless act of driving under the influence. Our DUI accident victim attorneys have represented many clients in serious cases involving impaired drivers, including those that resulted in wrongful death. We work to pursue settlements within available policy limits and under the law.
If you choose to pursue your case with us, our Inglewood DUI victim attorneys can start the process at no upfront costs. With our contingency fee pay structure, we don’t charge our clients attorney fees unless we successfully pursue compensation for them. They may only have to pay a few case-related costs regardless of how their claim resolves.
Common Injuries In A DUI Accident
You could pursue compensation for the injuries you sustained in an accident caused by a DUI driver. Some common injuries are:
- Cuts and Lacerations
- Bruises
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Broken Bones
- Organ Damage
Determining the full extent of the harm you sustained is critical for knowing how much compensation you could potentially pursue. If you were hit by a drunk driver, seek immediate medical attention so you can get a prompt diagnosis and treatment. Then, consider reaching out to our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers. We can guide you on whether and how you can file a claim for your medical expenses.
Damages DUI Accident Victims Can Claim
Any injury you sustained in an accident caused by an impaired driver, whether minor or severe, could be something you can pursue compensation for. For example, you can file an injury claim or a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party for your hospital bills, medications, therapy sessions, and medical equipment. You can also seek damages for other losses, such as:
- The wages you lost due to missing work.
- Lost earning potential.
- Costs of repairing or replacing your damaged property.
- The physical pain and suffering you experienced.
- Psychological trauma resulting from the accident.
- Loss of enjoyment of life.
If your loved one dies in a DUI crash, you may be eligible to file a wrongful death case for the following damages:
- Medical expenses the victim incurred before their death.
- Funeral and burial costs.
- Loss of financial support from the victim.
- Emotional pain and suffering of the surviving family members.
- Loss of companionship with the deceased, primarily in relation to spouses and registered domestic partners.
- The economic worth of the benefits and services the decedent would have provided.
To understand what could be considered in your claim, contact our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers. We can help you avoid common problems victims face, such as underestimating future medical costs and emotional trauma. Our law firm works with medical specialists, economists, and other experts to assess the extent of your losses. With our comprehensive approach, we aim to identify and pursue all relevant damages in your case.
Responsible Parties In A DUI Accident Case
In Inglewood, the individual or company that caused the accident is usually held responsible for the injuries and losses they cause. The impaired driver is typically the primary defendant in a case, but other parties could share responsibility. Our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers can help investigate the crash to identify other entities who may be liable, which may include:
- Bars and Event Venues — DUI accidents are likely to occur in certain spots around Inglewood’s entertainment districts, where bars and establishments like SoFi Stadium and Kia Forum sell alcoholic drinks. Under California’s Dram Shop laws, vendors may be held responsible for injuries if they serve alcohol to a minor who gets into a DUI accident later.
- Social Hosts — The Dram Shop Law also covers private individuals. Social hosts could be liable if they knowingly offer alcohol to a guest under the age of 21, and the minor causes a traffic accident. They may also be held liable if they continue to serve alcohol to an obviously drunk individual who later causes a DUI accident.
- Parents or Guardians — California law states that parents may also be held liable for damages caused by children under 18 in driving-related accidents. In accordance with the California Vehicle Code, parents who sign their minor child’s driver application may be jointly and severally liable for accidents that their minor children cause while driving.
- Other Third Parties — Our Inglewood DUI victim attorneys can further investigate any other potentially liable parties you might be able to pursue compensation from. For instance, the car owner could face liability if they knowingly allowed the impaired individual to drive their vehicle. If the driver was on duty or driving for work purposes at the time of the incident, the employer might also share responsibility.
Key Elements To Prove In A Lawsuit Against The DUI Driver
A drunk or drugged driver involved in an accident isn’t automatically responsible for your medical expenses and other losses. To have grounds to sue the DUI driver, you must provide evidence demonstrating the following:
The Driver Was Under The Influence
The first step is demonstrating that the defendant was driving under the influence at the time of the incident. If the driver is charged with a DUI, their conviction can serve as proof. We can also use evidence like the police report, which shows the result of the breathalyzer.
In general, drivers over 21 years old are considered to be driving under the influence with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level of 0.08%. Commercial vehicle drivers are subject to a stricter limit of 0.04%. Meanwhile, California has a zero-tolerance policy on underage DUI. A minor can be held civilly liable for accidents they cause while driving with a BAC of 0.01%.
However, DUI isn’t limited to alcohol. The law covers impairment due to any substance that can affect one’s ability to drive safely. This includes illegal drugs, over-the-counter pills, and prescription medications. Some medicines have warnings not to operate heavy machinery, including cars, after taking them because of their side effects.
In cases involving drugs or prescription medications, our DUI victim lawyers in Inglewood may need to obtain the blood test and toxicology results as evidence. Additionally, we must show how a substance may have affected the defendant’s ability to operate their vehicle safely.
The Driver’s Intoxication Caused The Accident
You also need to prove that the driver’s impairment directly caused the accident. For example, blurred vision due to alcohol might have prevented them from noticing a cyclist, leading to a bicycle accident. In another scenario, a driver could suddenly swerve to avoid a drug-induced hallucination and crash into a crowd coming out of a Rams game. Someone who has taken antihistamines during high pollen level days could become confused, making them unable to react properly to traffic conditions.
Eyewitness accounts, dashcam footage, and traffic camera recordings can support this. Our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers can also work with accident reconstructionists. They can provide expert testimony about how the driver’s intoxicated state could have led to the crash.
You Suffered Damages Due To The Accident
To further establish that the driver was negligent, you must also prove that the accident led to losses that must be compensated. Our Inglewood DUI victim attorneys can help gather the necessary documentation and evidence to show the full extent of your damages. Some examples are:
- Medical Records
- Doctor’s Notes
- Bills And Receipts
- Payslips
- Expert Testimony
What To Do After A DUI Accident
Anything you do immediately after a DUI accident can significantly affect your physical recovery and potential right to file a compensation claim. For example, taking steps like these could help protect your well-being and legal rights:
- Stay calm and move to a safer area if you can. Assess your condition before checking other people involved.
- Call 911 immediately so paramedics and local authorities can respond to the scene. This can also quickly alert nearby officers if the impaired driver is trying to commit a hit-and-run.
- Don’t engage with the intoxicated or drugged driver. Their behavior may be unpredictable; let the police handle the situation with them.
- If you’re able, take photos and videos of the scene. Capture the scene from different angles and highlight important details like visible injuries, property damage, road marks, debris from the accident, etc.
- Politely request that any witnesses provide statements to the police. Ask for their phone number, as well, in case you need to contact them later.
- Seek a thorough medical evaluation, even if you feel fine. Some injuries might not show symptoms immediately.
- Consult our lawyers in Inglewood for DUI accident victims. Having legal representation can be important for helping you learn about your rights and preserving evidence.
(No guarantee of outcome. Results displayed were dependent on unique facts of that case, and different facts will bring different results.)
Statute Of Limitations For DUI Accident Cases
California’s statute of limitations outlines the time limits for filing a personal injury claim. If you’re injured in a DUI accident, you have two years to seek compensation from the at-fault party. Letting this deadline pass before taking action can result in forfeiting your right to pursue compensation through a lawsuit. Talking to our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers early on may help us start working on a valid claim within the allowed timeframe.
However, some exceptions might apply. For example, if you didn’t know of your injuries immediately, your deadline could start from the date you should have reasonably discovered your injuries. If the victim is a minor, the statute of limitations can be paused until they turn 18 years old.
Since deadlines can be difficult to figure out, you can talk to our Inglewood personal injury lawyers. We can review whether your case qualifies for any exemptions that may allow you to bring a civil case even after two years have passed.
The Dangers Of Driving Under The Influence
According to the Office of Traffic Safety, the city made 69 DUI arrests in 2021, ranking third out of 60 cities. Traffic crash data from UC Berkeley revealed that alcohol was involved in 31 injuries and fatalities, while drugs were involved in three cases that same year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need A DUI Victim Lawyer To Pursue Compensation?
You’re not required to hire a lawyer when filing a claim, so you might ask, “Why do I need a personal injury lawyer?” Having one guiding you and representing your interests could ease the burden of navigating the claims process on your own. DUI accidents can involve complicated legal issues, and attorneys know how to address them. Lawyers with experience in handling DUI victim cases in Inglewood can help identify who may be responsible for the crash and file a claim against them for your injuries.
With our DUI victim attorneys on your side, you could make more informed decisions when pursuing compensation from at-fault parties. We can also help you negotiate a settlement with insurance companies. To speak with our experienced team, call (888) 488-1391 for a free, no-obligation initial consultation.
Will My DUI Accident Case Go To Trial?
If you can reach a settlement for your DUI accident, you may not have to go to court. Many civil cases are settled this way. Insurance companies and law firms typically want to avoid spending more time and money on a trial. However, your Inglewood DUI victim attorney might suggest going to court if an agreement can’t be reached. This route may provide an opportunity to settle complex disputes.
What Are My Options If The Impaired Driver Is Uninsured?
If the driver who hit you doesn’t have insurance, you might still have other options for compensation. Your first resource is the uninsured motorist coverage under your auto policy (if you did not waive it). If you have minimum insurance limits, you may be able to seek up to:
- $30,000 for bodily injury/death to one person.
- $60,000 for bodily injury/death to more than one person per accident.
- $3,500 for property damage.
You may also have other options, such as filing a claim against the impaired driver’s assets or the driver’s employer. Our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers can help you evaluate all potential avenues for pursuing compensation. We will review applicable laws to see whether other parties, like bar owners or social hosts, could be held liable.
Can I Get Compensation If I Was Partly To Blame For My Accident?
There is no guarantee that you can get compensation when filing a DUI accident claim. However, you may still be able to seek it despite sharing some blame for a crash. California is a pure comparative negligence state. In Inglewood, by extension, you can still pursue compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced according to the percentage of your fault. For example, if you are found to be 20% liable, you will only receive 80% of your total damages.
The challenge in cases where you are partially at fault is determining a fair assessment of everyone’s share of responsibility in a crash. Disputes may arise during the claims process, in which blame may be shifted onto you. Our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers can assist you in advocating for your rights. We can conduct an independent investigation to establish the facts, demonstrate the other party’s potential share of fault, and advocate for you every step of the way.
What If I Was A Passenger In The Impaired Driver's Car?
If you are injured as a passenger of a drunk or drugged driver, you may still have the right to file a claim. In general, passengers are not responsible for the driver’s actions. However, if you share responsibility for the accident due to your negligence, your compensation may be reduced.
Our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers can explain your rights in a consultation. Contact us to schedule a free first meeting and learn what you can do to move forward with your case.
How Much Are DUI Accident Settlements Worth?
The value of a DUI accident case depends on the full scope of your damages. For instance, minor cases with short-term injuries and minimal property damage are commonly valued lower than accidents resulting in severe injuries, significant pain and suffering, and long-term consequences, though this isn’t a hard and fast rule. Many other factors can affect how much you can pursue, such as your share of fault (if any) and the insurance coverage limits of the at-fault party.
If you need guidance in pursuing compensation that reflects your specific circumstances, our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers are here to help. We can help assess all aspects of your case, including your current expenses and future needs. Additionally, we have the negotiation skills and determination to seek a settlement that closely aligns with the extent of your losses after a DUI crash.
How Long Do DUI Cases Typically Take To Resolve?
What Are The Chances Of Winning A DUI-Related Civil Case?
There’s no real way to determine the odds of winning a claim. Your ability to pursue compensation will depend on the specific details involved, including the quality of the available evidence. However, an attorney can help by assisting you with building a well-supported case. Their independent investigation into your accident could help them gather evidence that demonstrates the full extent of your losses to insurance companies or, if necessary, a judge and jury.
If you have a valid claim and decide to enlist our services for your case, you can work with lawyers who are committed to advocating for your rights. We have an understanding of the relevant laws, are skilled at settlement negotiations, and take a client-focused approach to each case. Contact our qualified Inglewood DUI victim attorneys to learn more about how we can help.
Call Our Inglewood DUI Victim Attorneys
Figuring out your next steps after an accident can be difficult, but you can always call our attorneys if you’d like some help. While the process can certainly be overwhelming, we can guide you through it and serve as your support. We can help you understand your rights, explore your legal options, and identify what damages you can file a claim for.
With our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers, you can learn whether and how you can seek compensation from a drunk driver or any other liable parties. Call (888) 488-1391 to get started with a free initial consultation.
Our law firm represents DUI accident victims in all Inglewood neighborhoods: Morningside Park, Downtown Inglewood, Fairview Heights, Arbor Village, Hollypark Knolls, Centinela Heights, Century Heights, Inglewood Knolls, and Lockhaven. We also extend our services to other cities in Los Angeles and throughout California, including Alhambra, Baldwin Park, Beverly Hills, Glendale, Pomona, Pasadena, Phelan, Laguna Woods, Huntington Beach, Pico Rivera, Costa Mesa, Oxnard, Newport Beach, and Ventura.
