California Drunk Driving Accident Victim Lawyers
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- DUI Accidents in California — Injured Victims Deserve Justice
- We Hold Drunk Drivers Accountable: Intoxicated Driving is Negligent Driving
- Other Parties May Be Liable for a Drunk Driving Accident
- Understanding the Difference Between a Criminal Case and a Civil Case
- What Happens If the Criminal Charges Get Dismissed?
- The DUI Accident Statute of Limitations in California
- DUI Accident Victims in California Deserve Full Financial Compensation
- Special Consideration in DUI Accident Claims: Punitive Damages
- Dealing With the Opposing Insurance Company: Top 5 Ways to Protect Yourself After Being a Victim of a DUI
- Why You Should Choose Our California DUI Victim Lawyers
- You Can Always Afford a Top-Rated Drunk Driving Accident Victim Attorney
- How Often Are People Arrested for DUI?
- High-Risk Areas for DUI Accidents in California
- Wrongful Death In a DUI Accident in California
- What is Driving Under the Influence (DUI)?
- Driving High – Marijuana in California
- Legal Limits of Driving High in California
- Frequently Asked Question
Committed Personal Injury Lawyers Representing DUI Accident Victims Throughout California
If you or someone you care about has been injured in a DUI accident, contact Arash Law. Our California drunk driving accident victim lawyers can help you understand your rights and the legal options that may be available. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to arrange a free initial consultation.
According to data published by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), there were 401,520 DUI accident fatalities in the USA in 2021. Every day, approximately 34 Americans die in drunk-driving crashes throughout the United States, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Alcohol is a factor in nearly one in three fatal auto accidents in the US. As of 2023, there were 12,429 drunk-driving traffic fatalities recorded. These deaths were all preventable. Drunk driving forced thousands of innocent people to endure severe, even life-altering, injuries and trauma.
Accidents caused by drunk driving can lead to serious injuries and significant losses. Victims may face medical expenses, lost income, and other financial and personal challenges after a crash.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident in California, consider speaking with our attorneys to learn more about your legal rights and options for seeking compensation.
Legal Assistance For Injured Victims Of DUI Accidents In California
Everyone deserves safe roads. Intoxicated drivers put innocent people and themselves at severe and unacceptable risk. While California and the United States as a whole have made some remarkable progress in curbing drinking and driving, there is still a very long way to go. According to a study conducted by the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility, drunk driving accident fatalities are 50% lower than they were 40 years ago. That being said, the scope of the problem is still vast.
One of the most alarming things about DUI wrecks is that they are disproportionately likely to result in fatalities or severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), broken bones, internal organ injuries, spinal cord damage, and partial or total paralysis.
In 2021, intoxicated drivers were involved in almost 31% of all fatal auto accidents. When DUI accidents occur, the resulting crashes are far more likely to lead to significant injuries. Impaired drivers are more likely to engage in reckless or dangerous behavior. Many DUI accidents occur at high rates of speed.
The risk of road traffic crashes and injuries rises significantly with each increase in blood alcohol concentration (BAC). While the legal BAC limit for driving is 0.08, it is worth noting that consuming any amount of alcoholic beverage before getting behind the wheel can impair driving.
California drunk driving accident attorneys can provide guidance on the legal process, investigate the circumstances of a crash, and explain the options available for pursuing compensation.
Holding Drunk Drivers Accountable: Intoxicated Driving Is Negligent Driving
California is a fault state, which means that drivers who are found to be at fault for a car accident may be held liable for any damages or injuries that result from the accident. To hold another party legally responsible for injuries sustained in a car wreck, the victim must be able to establish that the other party bears liability for the crash. Liability is typically based on a legal theory called ‘negligence.’ Essentially, negligence is reckless or careless conduct that causes an injury to another party. In car accident cases, negligence can come in many different forms, from speeding to unsafe lane changes to distracted driving.
Of course, intoxicated driving is, by definition, negligent driving. Indeed, it is one of the worst types of careless drivers. Often, drunk drivers commit several different negligent acts at the same time. They are more likely to speed, they often violate other traffic laws, and they have trouble holding their attention on the road and avoiding distractions. Knowing this, you may think that it is easy to hold a drunk driver legally liable through a personal injury claim. Unfortunately, that is not always the case.
Sometimes, defendants and their insurance carriers will defend DUI accident claims aggressively, doing everything from undervaluing a victim’s damages to trying to push some of the blame for the DUI accident onto the victim. All successful personal injury claims, including drunk driving accident claims, are built on a sturdy foundation of compelling, reliable, and well-presented evidence.
Our California drunk driving accident victim attorneys can help you put together a strong, effective legal claim. Relevant evidence in drunk driving accident cases can come in many different forms.
Some notable examples of types of evidence that are frequently used to prove liability in civil DUI accident injury claims include:
- Police reports
- Arrest records
- Evidence presented in a criminal trial
- A conviction for drunk driving
- Photographs of the accident
- Witness testimonies
As California is a comparative negligence jurisdiction, defendants and, generally, insurance companies may try to pin some of the blame for a crash on an injured victim. If they are able to do so, it will reduce their financial liability, and, in the process, it will reduce the amount of compensation available to the victim. DUI accident victims must stand against any unfair apportionment of fault. By carefully gathering and presenting evidence to prove the drunk driver’s full responsibility for a crash, injured victims can better protect their legal rights and financial interests. Our experienced California drunk driving accident victim lawyers provide legal guidance to individuals seeking to understand their rights and available options after such incidents.
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
Other Parties May Be Liable For A Drunk Driving Accident
One of the many things that make drunk driving accident claims unique is the fact that other defendants may bear partial or total liability for the crash. If you were injured in a DUI collision in California, it is imperative that you explore and assess every potential avenue for financial recovery.
Your California drunk driving accident victim lawyers can help you do so if necessary.
Indeed, drunk drivers should be held responsible for their reckless and dangerous conduct. At the same time, other parties may bear liability for the crash as well. Some examples are:
- Parents of teenage drivers
- Hosts of private parties
- Bars and clubs
- Restaurants
If one of these parties acts negligently and a DUI accident occurs, they may bear some responsibility for the resulting damages. For instance, parents might be held responsible if they allow their teenager’s friends to drink at their home and then drive afterward. Likewise, a bar, restaurant, or liquor store may face liability if it serves alcohol to someone under 21 who later causes harm. While California law generally protects establishments from lawsuits based on serving alcohol to adults, exceptions exist when underage drinking is involved.
Since these types of claims are complex and depend on specific circumstances, injured victims may benefit from consulting with experienced California drunk driving accident victim lawyers to better understand their legal options.
Understanding The Difference Between A Criminal Case And A Civil Case
The intoxicated driver can face serious criminal charges following a significant DUI accident. Under California state law (California Vehicle Code 23513), a DUI that results in an injury to another person can be charged as a felony offense. While the criminal justice system is essential, any criminal case brought against a drunk driver will be a wholly separate legal proceeding from a civil personal injury case. To be clear, injured victims cannot get access to the full and fair financial compensation that they deserve in criminal court.
If you were hurt in a DUI accident, you need to bring a separate personal injury claim in civil court. Notably, some of the rules are different in civil court. For example, while a criminal DUI conviction requires proof beyond a reasonable doubt, civil liability only requires proof by a preponderance of the evidence — meaning it is more likely than not (over 50%) that the driver was responsible. This lower standard allows injured victims to pursue compensation in civil court even if the driver is not convicted or if criminal charges are dropped.
You may notice the complicated legal process of claiming damages for injuries sustained in DUI accidents. Consider getting professional representation from a DUI victim attorney near you who can pursue a personal injury claim on your behalf in civil court. Your lawyer can enter any information uncovered in the criminal case, including a DUI conviction, into evidence in your civil case.
What Happens If The Criminal Charges Get Dismissed?
There are a number of reasons why a criminal case against the drunk driver who caused your accident may not proceed. Factors that are entirely out of the control of the victim, from errors made by police officers to discretionary decisions made by California prosecutors, could result in criminal charges being reduced or dropped. Please know that if this happens, you can still bring a civil claim to pursue financial compensation for your injuries.
The standards of proof are different for personal injury claims. Besides, you do not need to prove ‘intoxication.’ Instead, you simply need to prove that the driver’s negligence, in some manner, contributed to your collision. California drunk driving accident victim lawyers can help.
The DUI Accident Statute Of Limitations In California
Under California state law, plaintiffs have a limited amount of time to file their personal injury lawsuit. According to the California Courts, there is a two-year statute of limitations on personal injury claims, including DUI accident cases. An injured victim must bring their legal claim before the statute of limitations expires. Otherwise, they will be barred from bringing a case at all.
Since there is a deadline for claiming compensation for DUI accident injuries, it may be beneficial to speak with a California drunk driving accident lawyer to understand the applicable time limits and the steps involved in filing a claim.
There are very few exceptions to the state’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims. If the victim’s injuries could not be reasonably discovered at the time of the accident, which is relatively uncommon in motor vehicle crash claims, the statute of limitations might be extended. In addition, the statute of limitations does not apply to minors. A minor who was hurt in a DUI crash may have a claim beyond the two-year limit.
With DUI accident claims, it’s important to be mindful of legal deadlines. Waiting too long could affect your ability to file a case within the statute of limitations. Beyond the statutory requirements, it is also in your best interest to consult with California drunk driving accident victim lawyers right away after a crash. Not only will your lawyer help you take action before the deadline, but they will also assist you in launching a comprehensive investigation of the DUI accident, helping you build a well-supported personal injury case.
Financial Recovery For California DUI Accident Victims
If you or your loved one was injured in a drunk driving crash in California, you have the right to seek appropriate compensation for your losses. As a general rule, personal injury compensation is meant to be compensatory.
Among other things, monetary relief may be available for:
- Vehicle repairs/replacement
- Ambulance costs
- Emergency medical bills
- Miscellaneous medical expenses
- Rehabilitative care
- Mental health treatment
- Loss of income
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Disfigurement
- Physical impairment
- Loss of life enjoyment
DUI accident victims may be eligible to receive compensation for their economic losses and their non-economic suffering. However, in some drunk driving accident cases, punitive damages may be available.
Yet, recovering a fair settlement can be deeply challenging. Insurance companies often have detailed processes and strategies when handling DUI accident claims. These approaches may result in lower settlement offers, and in some cases, claims may be disputed or denied.
Our California drunk driving accident victim lawyers assess the facts, gather evidence, and analyze potential liability when handling these cases. We can assist you with your DUI injury claim.
Wrongful Death Of A Family Member
In the unfortunate event that your family member was killed in a DUI crash in California, financial relief may be available through a wrongful death claim. While no amount of money can ever make up for such a tragic and senseless loss, it is crucial that a victim’s family pursue a strong wrongful death case to seek justice, accountability, and much-needed financial support.
Under California’s wrongful death statute (California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60), family members of the victim could be entitled to recovery for financial losses, such as medical bills, funeral expenses, and loss of benefits. Victims might also be entitled to non-economic damages, including loss of love, companionship, and consortium. Wrongful death claims are highly complex. Family members of the victims may speak to a car accident lawyer to guide them with their next steps.
Special Consideration In DUI Accident Claims: Punitive Damages
While drunk driving accident claims share some crucial commonalities with other motor vehicle accident cases, there are also some significant differences. As was mentioned previously, personal injury damages are generally meant to be purely compensatory in nature. In most cases, courts do not seek to punish a negligent defendant. However, DUI accident claims are sometimes an exception to this rule.
In California, injured victims are occasionally able to seek punitive damages, meaning damages that are not tied to any specific loss but that are instead awarded to punish the bad behavior of the defendant, in cases where the conduct was extraordinarily reckless or egregious. Drunk driving crashes are an example of a personal injury case in which punitive damages are sometimes granted.
If you or your loved one suffered a severe injury in a DUI crash, you might be searching online for the phrase “DUI victim lawyer near me.” A legal professional can help you assess your ability to seek punitive damages. Your lawyer will be able to review the specific nature of your case, assemble all relevant evidence, and put together an evidence-based claim to get you and your family any available financial compensation, including any punitive damages that may be warranted.
If you were injured in a DUI accident, you might want to contact knowledgeable lawyers to help you build your case and start the process of claiming your personal injury claims. Our California drunk driving accident victim lawyers at Arash Law are equipped with the experience and legal knowledge you need to go against DUI drivers.
Dealing With The Opposing Insurance Company: Top 5 Ways To Protect Yourself After Being A Victim Of A DUI Accident
Large insurance companies defend most drunk driving accident claims. One of the most important things that you need to know is that the insurance company is never on your side. Please remember: insurance companies primarily focus on managing claims in a way that protects their financial responsibilities. Their approach may not always align with what injured parties believe is fair.
Insurance companies put an enormous amount of resources into training representatives to protect company interests. After a significant DUI accident, you may receive a phone call or inquiry from the responsible driver’s insurance company. Be careful when responding to this type of request. Insurance adjusters represent their company’s interests, so their goals may not always align with yours. It’s important to remember that they are not a source of legal advice.
You can deal with the insurance company in many ways after you have been injured due to drunk driving in California.
Here are the five most effective ways our California DUI victim lawyers recommend:
- Never Admit or Accept the Blame — It is shocking to some people, but even in DUI accidents, insurance companies often try to push some of the blame onto the injured victim. If they can do so, it will allow them to reduce their liability. This means money is coming directly out of their pocket. Never admit or accept any of the faults in a DUI accident. A drunk driver should be held accountable for their misconduct. Victims should not discuss the issue of fault directly with an insurance adjuster.
- Do Not Make a Statement — Be cautious when responding to this type of request. Insurance adjusters manage claims on behalf of their company, and their role may not fully reflect your individual concerns. Keep in mind that they are not a source of legal advice.
- Avoid Early Settlement Negotiations — In DUI accident cases, insurers often try to avoid liability entirely. As such, they alter their tactics. In cases where liability is clear and obvious, insurers try to limit the value of an injured victim’s settlement. One common tactic is to offer a quick, lowball settlement to the DUI accident victim. Do not settle your claim for less than you are owed. You can let your DUI accident attorney handle settlement talks.
- Do Not Sign Any Documents — You should not sign anything from an insurance company without first consulting with California drunk driving accident victim lawyers. Often, insurers will ask injured victims to sign a full release of their medical records. Do not listen to their claim that a document is ‘standard procedure.’ They are looking for information to use to reduce your compensation. You are not obligated to give them full access to your records. Consult a lawyer to protect your rights.
- Work with DUI Accident Lawyers in California — There is no reason to go up against a big insurance company on your own. There is a lot on the line in most DUI accident injury claims. Insurance companies can try to find ways to reduce your settlement. One thing that you can do to protect your rights and interests is to work with the insurance company exclusively through California DUI accident lawyers.
Why Choose Our California DUI Victim Lawyers
After a DUI accident, you may have questions about your rights and the legal process. Lawyers who focus on representing accident victims handle cases involving drunk driving crashes and provide guidance on possible next steps. These attorneys generally do not represent defendants or insurance companies but instead focus on the needs of injured parties.
When looking for a ‘DUI accident attorney near me,’ people often weigh factors such as background, experience with personal injury law, and professional recognition. An initial consultation can help you better understand whether a lawyer is the right fit for your situation.
In handling DUI accident cases, our lawyers will:
- Conduct a comprehensive investigation of your DUI accident case.
- Answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide guidance.
- Assemble all relevant evidence to build a persuasive legal case.
- Undertake settlement negotiations with insurance companies.
- Prepare for personal injury litigation.
For injured victims, a common goal is to reach a settlement that fairly addresses their losses, as this can help resolve the matter more efficiently. However, settlements are not always reached, and in such cases, a California DUI victim attorney can prepare the case for litigation and present it in court if needed.
How Much Does It Cost To Hire A DUI Victim Lawyer?
The cost of hiring a DUI victim lawyer often depends on the type of fee arrangement. In many cases, these lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, which means you do not pay hourly rates. Instead, their fee is collected as a percentage of any recovery obtained in your case.
This structure is designed to make legal services more accessible, especially for those who may not be able to afford upfront costs. Since each case is different, discussing the fee agreement during an initial consultation can help you understand what to expect before moving forward.
High-Risk Areas For DUI Accidents In California
California’s high-risk areas for DUI accidents can vary, but they tend to be located in urban areas with high population density, nightlife, and significant traffic. SafeTREC Traffic Safety Facts for 2024 lists the following counties in California with the most incidents by fatalities and serious injuries:
- Los Angeles County
- San Bernardino County
- Riverside County
- San Diego County
- Kern County
- Orange County
Keep in mind that DUI accidents can occur anywhere, and the risks can differ depending on the time of day, holidays, and local enforcement efforts. If you got hurt in a DUI accident, reach out to our California drunk driving accident victim lawyers at Arash Law for legal guidance.
Handling DUI Accidents Without California Drunk Driving Accident Victim Lawyers
In California, you may represent yourself in DUI accident claims. It is not mandatory to hire California drunk driving accident victim lawyers when filing a personal injury claim, but it is advisable. You must remember that personal injury laws are very technical, and the process of claiming compensation is complicated. If you choose to face the legal battle without a DUI victim accident attorney, you should also be aware of the risks you may face.
Here are some disadvantages of dealing with a DUI in California without a victim accident attorney:
Receiving Inadequate Compensation
Insufficient compensation is a significant risk of not hiring a personal injury attorney. Insurance firms tend to settle claims for the least amount possible. To do this, they might use some techniques to make your claim seem less valuable. They can try to refute your claims or claim that your injuries weren’t as serious as you claim because they happened before the accident. Insurance companies also tend to rush the settlement process or delay your claim process, so you end up accepting less compensation.
If you decide to seek legal representation, a California drunk driving accident lawyer can assist with preparing your claim. An attorney can handle communications with insurance companies and help evaluate the potential value of damages related to your injuries.
Legal Complexity Of Personal Injury Claims
The legal process for personal injury claims is complicated and intimidating. Without a DUI accident victim lawyer, navigating the legal system’s complexities can be difficult.
An experienced California drunk driving accident lawyer can assist with case preparation, knowledge of courtroom procedures, and the use of evidence to present a claim. Legal counsel may also handle witness examinations and develop arguments as part of the litigation process.
Missed Deadlines And Incomplete Documentation
In areas such as California, filing a personal injury claim requires meticulous documentation and strict adherence to deadlines. One of the dangers of not having a California DUI accident attorney is the possibility of missing important dates and submitting insufficient proof. Failure to comply with deadlines may result in delays in the processing of your claim or even its outright rejection.
People without a legal background may find it difficult to manage the complex legal requirements and secure the accurate submission of required paperwork without the help of a DUI accident victim personal injury attorney.
A California DUI accident attorney can explain the procedures, help complete paperwork accurately, and assist with submitting it on time.
Emotional Stress
The aftermath of an injury can be emotionally challenging. It can be stressful to handle legal matters on your own. DUI accident victim attorneys can ease some of those burdens and allow you to focus on your recovery.
Personal injuries often result in a variety of emotional stresses. Physical pain, medical treatments, and lifestyle adjustments alone can cause significant emotional strain. However, attempting to handle your case on your own without the professional assistance of California drunk driving accident victim lawyers can further contribute to stress and anxiety. By hiring a personal injury lawyer, you can rely on their legal knowledge when determining the value of your claim and advocating for fair compensation on your behalf.
Lack Of Resources And Time
Lastly, without California drunk driving accident victim lawyers, your case might not be effectively handled due to a lack of resources and time. A personal injury claim requires significant resources, including access to medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and other professionals who can provide insight and support.
You may need the assistance of California drunk driving accident victim attorneys to access these resources. Gathering the necessary evidence, such as medical records, witness testimony, and expert opinions, can be time-consuming and complex. Furthermore, identifying and coordinating the right experts can be challenging without legal guidance.
Wrongful Death In A DUI Accident In California
When a family member is killed in a DUI accident, California law allows certain relatives to file a wrongful death claim. Eligible family members may include spouses, children, parents, dependent stepchildren, or, if no direct family is available, the person entitled to inherit the victim’s estate or the personal representative appointed by the probate court.
A wrongful death claim may allow families to seek compensation for financial losses, such as lost income, medical expenses prior to death, and burial costs, as well as non-economic damages like loss of companionship. Consulting with a California DUI accident attorney can help families understand the process, evaluate potential claims, and explore options for pursuing damages under the law.
What Is Driving Under The Influence (DUI)?
According to California’s driving under the influence (DUI) laws, you are driving a vehicle while intoxicated if your blood alcohol content (BAC) is at or above any of the following levels:
- 0.08% or higher — 21 years old or older operating a regular passenger vehicle
- 0.04% or higher — operating a commercial vehicle
- 0.01% or higher — younger than 21 years old.
Understanding the DUI laws may be difficult for the victims, and this is where we step in. Speaking with a California attorney experienced in DUI accident cases can help explain the laws in simpler terms and clarify the legal options available.
Driving High: Marijuana In California
Under California Vehicle Code Section 23222, any bottle, can, or other container containing any alcoholic beverage that has been opened, the seal of which has been broken, or the contents of which have been partially removed, shall not be in the possession of any person while that person is operating a motor vehicle on a highway or on lands as described in subdivision (b) of Section 23220.
In the event that a person is found in possession of up to one avoirdupois ounce of marijuana, other than concentrated marijuana as defined by Health and Safety Code Section 11006.5, while operating a motor vehicle on a highway or on land, he or she is in violation of the law and is subject to a fine of up to $100.
If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, it’s important to consult with a California drunk driving accident lawyer as soon as possible. Experienced attorneys advocate for the victims of those who choose to drive under the influence.
Legal Limits Of Driving High In California
Driving while intoxicated is undoubtedly risky, but is it legal to do so? Currently, there are no fixed legal limitations for driving while intoxicated in California. The state legislation just states that if a driver is discovered to be under the influence of THC, they may be charged. This differs from “per se” regulations in other states, which place restrictions on the minimum levels of THC that can be detected. The THC level in a suspect’s body is measured via blood or urine tests to establish whether or not it is above the legal limit for driving while high.
In California, this isn’t the case, which causes a lot of uncertainty for both drivers and law enforcement personnel. In the end, it’s up to the authorities to decide if the driver is sufficiently intoxicated and unable to operate their vehicle properly.
If someone is injured in a DUI accident, it can be helpful to speak with a California attorney who handles drunk driving accident cases. An attorney can explain the legal process and assist in preparing a claim for potential compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Do I Need To Know If I Was Hit By A Drunk Driver In California?
You can sue the at-fault driver for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. It is illegal to drive while intoxicated. An injured victim may be compensated if the drunk driver is found guilty. After a DUI collision, you can take precautions to protect yourself and get ready to file an insurance claim or a lawsuit. You’ll need to provide evidence that the driver’s intoxication contributed to or caused the collision. After the accident, California drunk driving accident victim lawyers can assist you in deciding whether to settle or file a lawsuit.
What Happens If The Drunk Driver Who Hit My Car Is Not Insured?
In California, most auto insurance policies will cover compensation for injuries caused by drunk driving. However, you may have to sue a defendant directly if no insurance covers the accident or the aggregate policy limits of all applicable policies do not cover your damages.
The following categories can be used to seek compensatory damages (such as medical bills):
- Third-party auto liability insurance for DUI drivers
- Own uninsured motorist policy
Speaking with a California attorney experienced in DUI accident claims can help explain the process and options for seeking compensation from insurance companies or the at-fault driver.
How Much Do DUI Lawyers In California Charge?
There are no fixed costs associated with hiring California drunk driving accident victim lawyers. But some factors affect the payments, which include:
- The complexity of the lawsuits
- The level of experience and reputation of the DUI attorney
- The current caseload of the DUI lawyer
- Is the case handled by an associate or the primary attorney?
- The particular courthouse
- Possibility of trial
The California drunk driving accident victim lawyers of Arash Law may accept your case in a contingent fee arrangement. A contingency fee agreement means that you don’t need to pay until after we recover compensation on your behalf. With this fee arrangement, victims are more confident that their lawyers’ interests are aligned with their own.
How Often Do DUI Cases Get Dismissed In California?
California has a very low chance of dismissing DUI charges, and the conviction rate is among the highest in the United States. According to particular research, only 20% to 30% of DUI cases could be dismissed or end in an acquittal.
Is It Worth Getting A DUI Lawyer In California?
Whether hiring a lawyer is worthwhile depends on the details of your situation. DUI accident cases can involve complex issues like liability, medical expenses, and insurance negotiations. A lawyer can explain your legal rights, outline possible options, and help you understand how California law applies to your case.
Even if you’re unsure about pursuing a claim, an initial consultation can provide useful guidance so you can make an informed decision about the next steps.
How Much Does It Cost To Get A DUI Accident Lawyer In California?
Your total attorney fees will vary based on the difficulty of your case, which directly affects the total amount. Attorney fees are lower for simple cases than for complex cases.
What Happens At A DUI Court Hearing In California?
The arrest, arraignment, pretrial, and jury trial phases of the case are referred to as the “DUI court process” in California. Most defendants end up pleading guilty to DUI or a lesser crime, and a select minority are fortunate enough to have their charges dropped without going to trial.
When a case first enters the court system, there are three significant court sessions, which consist of arraignment, motions-based pretrial proceedings, plea deals, and a jury trial. Victims of DUI accidents may benefit from consulting a California attorney to better understand the court process and how evidence is presented in these cases.
How Long Does It Take To Resolve A DUI Case In California?
In California, resolving a DUI case that also involves personal injury can take significantly longer than a standard DUI. That’s because this not only deals with the criminal side of the case, but also the civil personal injury claims brought by the victim (or victims).
Several factors can influence how long a case takes to resolve, and it depends on the actual circumstances of the accident.
- Severity of Injuries — More serious injuries can mean longer medical treatment, which in turn can lead to delayed settlements.
- Disputed Liability — If there’s a question of who caused the crash, litigation can drag out the case.
- Insurance Coverage Issues — Multiple parties, underinsured drivers, or policy disputes slow things down.
- Criminal Case Dependency — Sometimes, insurers or injured parties wait for the outcome of the criminal DUI trial before pushing the civil claim.
If you were injured in a DUI accident caused by someone else, consulting drunk driving accident victim lawyers may help your case proceed more effectively through the legal process.
Can You Sue A Drunk Driver?
Yes! An accident victim may be able to seek compensation for their damages from the at-fault driver through a personal injury lawsuit. However, suing may not be the best option. It is important for accident victims to consider all aspects of a potential lawsuit before taking action.
To assess your case, contact California drunk driving accident victim lawyers who are capable of handling DUI cases. Find out if you have a valid claim by filling out our “Do I Have A Case?” form.
Can A Bar Be Held Liable For A Drunk Driver In California?
In general, no. California bars are typically not liable if a legal-aged customer drives drunk and harms another person. It is always possible for the victims to sue the drunk driver. Dram shop laws are recognized in other states. According to these laws, a liquor shop is responsible for the harmful actions of its drunk customer if the establishment serves the patron alcohol negligently and the patron subsequently causes harm as a result of his or her intoxication. However, California doesn’t recognize these laws.
Contact Our California Injury Lawyers For Drunk Driving Accident Victims
Our California DUI accident lawyers have the knowledge and experience to represent drunk driving accident victims in personal injury cases. We know how to protect your legal rights and help you and your family pursue fair financial compensation following California laws.
Are you ready to find out if you have a case? We are here to help. Please do not hesitate to contact our DUI victim lawyers in California at (888) 488-1391 to set up your free, strictly confidential personal injury case evaluation.
We serve injured victims, whether you’re in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Sacramento, San Jose, San Diego, Fresno, Bakersfield, Anaheim, Riverside, San Luis Obispo, or other California locations. Know that help from Arash Law is available to you 24/7.
