Inglewood DUI Victim Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
The Injured Win With Our Inglewood DUI Victim Lawyers
Injured by a drunk or drugged driver? You may be eligible for compensation. Contact our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers at (888) 488-1391. We’ll 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 recent change in legislation now 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 recover payment for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Having recovered over $500 Million for thousands of clients, we are committed to ensuring you receive the compensation you rightfully deserve. 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 provide expert legal advice and guide victims toward getting monetary reparation. Our team is ready to take action, especially given the recent changes.
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 can 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.
Led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our attorneys protect the rights of DUI accident victims. We aim to hold impaired drivers 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 the maximum settlement you deserve.
Our client was driving with his wife and son on a two-lane highway when a drunk driver crossed the double yellow lines, causing a head-on collision that claimed the life of a loving wife and mother.– ARASH KHORSANDI
What Sets Our DUI Victim Attorneys Apart
If you want to get the most favorable result, you’re naturally going to want the best Inglewood DUI victim attorneys on your side. You don’t have to search further. Our Inglewood injury law firm is your strongest ally against insurance companies that might try to deny your rights. Here’s what makes us one of the best personal injury law firms in California:
- In-Depth Understanding Of The Laws — Our lawyers are well-versed in the legal aspects of personal injury, car accidents, and DUI cases. We have the knowledge and expertise to handle even the most complex cases.
- Personalized Attention — We tailor our strategy according to the specifics of the case, our client’s situation, and their desired outcome. Our team will support you throughout the process and help make things more manageable for you.
- Aggressive Advocacy — Arash Law stands firmly against the reckless act of driving under the influence. Our DUI accident victim attorneys have previously won $6,000,000 for a client whose wife was killed by a drunk driver. We didn’t settle for less than the maximum policy limits, even when their insurer tried to dispute the claim.
If you choose to pursue your case with us, our DUI victim attorneys in Inglewood can start the process at no upfront costs. With our no-win, no-fee advocacy, we don’t charge our clients until we successfully recover compensation for them. If we don’t win, we don’t get paid.
Common Injuries In A DUI Accident
You can get paid 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 obtaining maximum compensation. If you were hit by a DUI driver, seek proper medical attention so you can get prompt diagnosis and treatment. Then, reach out to our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers. We can guide you on how you can recover your medical expenses.
Damages DUI Accident Victims Can Claim
Any injury you sustained in an accident caused by an impaired driver, no matter how minor, can be compensated. You can file an injury claim or a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party to reimburse your hospital bills, medications, therapy sessions, and medical equipment. You can also claim damages for other losses, such as:
- The wages you lost due to missing work.
- Your 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 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.
- The economic worth of the benefits and services the decedent would have provided.
To maximize your claim, rely on our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers. We can help you avoid the 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 accurately assess the extent of your losses. With our thorough approach, we can ensure every cent is accounted for.
Responsible Parties In A DUI Accident Case
In Inglewood, the individual or company that caused the accident is responsible for paying you. The impaired driver is typically the primary defendant in a case, but other parties could share responsibility. Our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers will thoroughly investigate the crash to identify other entities who should pay you, 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 can 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 can be liable if they knowingly offer alcohol to a guest who’s below 21 and the minor causes a traffic accident. Liability also attaches if they continue to serve alcohol to an obviously drunk individual and they later get involved in a DUI accident, causing injuries.
- Parents Or Guardians — California law states that parents can also be held liable for damages caused by their children under 18 driving-related accidents. In accordance with the California Vehicle Code, parents are jointly and severally liable for any accidents that their minor children cause while driving.
- Other Third Parties — Our Inglewood DUI victim attorneys can further investigate any other potentially liable parties to maximize your claim. 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 successfully 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 successfully hold the driver accountable, you must also prove that the accident led to losses that must be compensated. Our Inglewood DUI victim attorneys will 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 and financial recovery. Follow these steps to 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 any witnesses to 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. The sooner you get legal representation, the better. Our attorneys can work immediately to protect your rights and preserve evidence.
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
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 potential compensation. Make sure to talk to our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers immediately so we can start your 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 discovered your injuries. If the minor is a victim, the statute of limitations can be paused until they turn 18 years old.
Deadlines can be difficult to figure out, so you talk to our Inglewood personal injury lawyers. We can also review if your case qualifies for any exemptions, which 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 Get 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 can boost your chances of success. DUI accidents can involve complicated legal issues, and attorneys know how to navigate them. Lawyers specializing in DUI victim cases in Inglewood can determine who’s responsible for the crash and make them pay for your injuries.
If you have our DUI victim lawyers on your side, you have a higher chance of holding the at-fault parties accountable. We will fight against insurance companies that might try to avoid paying what you’re owed. Our award-winning team is only a phone call away. Call (888) 488-1391 for a free, no-obligation consultation.
Will My DUI Accident Case Go To Trial?
If you can reach a fair 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 a fair agreement can’t be reached. This route gives you a chance to secure higher compensation and settle complex disputes.
What Are My Options If The Impaired Driver Is Uninsured?
If the driver who hit you doesn’t have insurance, you 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 can recover up to:
- $15,000 for bodily injury per person.
- $30,000 for bodily injury per accident.
- $3,500 in 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 will evaluate all potential avenues for compensation. We will review applicable laws to see whether other parties, like bar owners or social hosts, can be held responsible.
Can I Get Compensation If I Was Partly To Blame For My Accident?
California is a pure comparative negligence state. In Inglewood, by extension, you can still receive 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 ensuring everyone’s responsibility is assessed fairly. Insurance companies often attempt to shift the blame onto you to minimize your compensation. Make sure your rights are protected by hiring our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers. We will investigate thoroughly to establish the facts, prove the other party’s 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 DUI victim lawyers in Inglewood can explain your rights better in a consultation. Contact us today to schedule a free 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 can be worth a few thousand dollars. On the other hand, accidents resulting in severe injuries, significant pain and suffering, and long-term consequences can lead to settlements worth millions. Many other factors can affect how much you will receive, such as your share of fault (if any) and the insurance coverage limits.
If you want to maximize your compensation, trust our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers. We will carefully assess all aspects of your case, including your current expenses and future needs. Additionally, we have the negotiation skills and drive to obtain the highest possible settlement for you.
How Long Do DUI Cases Typically Take To Resolve?
A personal injury case involving a DUI accident can take anywhere from a few months to more than a year. The timeline depends on several factors, like the complexity of the case, the availability of evidence, the willingness of other parties to cooperate, and whether the case goes to court. Lawsuits that go to trial take longer, especially if there are delays due to scheduling, complex paperwork, and backlogs.
Having good DUI victim lawyers in Inglewood can significantly affect the efficiency of the process. They can develop a solid strategy that increases the chances of reaching a favorable settlement. Additionally, they can expedite the gathering of evidence and process paperwork in a timely manner.
What Are The Chances Of Winning A DUI-Related Civil Case?
The odds of winning a claim depend on the specific details involved, including the quality of evidence. A major factor that affects your chances of success is the skill of your attorney. Some have lost good cases because of carelessness or lack of attention to detail.
When you entrust your case to us, you can be confident that your case is in capable hands. We have an in-depth understanding of the relevant laws, strong negotiation skills, and a meticulous approach to each case. We handle each stage of the process with care, ensuring we don’t miss a critical detail that could affect the outcome. If you want to win, choose only the best Inglewood DUI victim lawyers.
Call The DUI Victim Attorneys Inglewood Relies On
Figuring out your next steps after an accident is difficult, but you have our attorneys to turn to. While the process can certainly be overwhelming, we can guide you through it and serve as your support. We will help you understand your rights, explore your legal options, and determine what you’re entitled to.
With our Inglewood DUI victim lawyers, you can have the confidence to hold the drunk driver and any other liable parties accountable. Call (888) 488-1391 to get started on your path to recovery.
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 beyond, including Alhambra, Baldwin Park, Beverly Hills, Glendale, Pomona, Pasadena, Phelan, Laguna Woods, Huntington Beach, Pico Rivera, Costa Mesa, Oxnard, Newport Beach, and Ventura.
