Vallejo DUI Accident Victim Lawyers
We’ll tell you if you have a case or not, call (888) 488-1391 — We’re here 24 hours a day.
Vallejo DUI Accident Victim Lawyers Justice for the Injured
In Vallejo and throughout California, driving under the influence remains one of the leading causes of road fatalities. If an intoxicated driver causes harm to you or someone you care about, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages and losses. Our Vallejo DUI accident victim lawyers are here to help. Call us at (888) 488-1391, and let’s start working on your case.
Vallejo is a fast-growing city in California, located along San Pablo Bay’s northern shores. This city is home to diverse neighborhoods, a thriving downtown area, and a vibrant art scene. It also hosts an annual cultural event, the Solano County Fair, which is popular among locals and tourists. Moreover, Vallejo’s waterfront is filled with restaurants and shops, and for those who want to enjoy nightlife, the city also offers several clubs and bars, such as Club 1220 and Temple Night Club.
People having fun in such a lively environment can be overshadowed by the dangers of impaired driving. Many people mistakenly believe they can drive safely after consuming alcohol or drugs, but the reality is that DUI can lead to devastating accidents, causing severe injuries or fatalities.
If you’ve been injured in one, contact our Vallejo DUI accident victim lawyers immediately. As one of the biggest personal injury law firms in California, Arash Law has a powerhouse team of attorneys ready to fight for your rights and ensure you receive the justice and maximum compensation you rightfully 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
How Our Vallejo DUI Accident Victim Lawyers Can Help
At Arash Law, our DUI accident victim lawyers work tirelessly to protect your rights and pursue your best interests. With many decades of combined experience, we handle DUI accident claims not only against the intoxicated driver but also against any parties whose negligence may have contributed to the crash.
Here are the ways we can help you with your case:
- Our attorneys will investigate whether the driver’s intoxication caused the accident. We will examine the results of field sobriety and chemical tests, eyewitness accounts, and footage of the accident to establish liability.
- Our lawyers assess the victim’s damages, including medical expenses, lost wages from being unable to work, and property damage. Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, will also be accounted for.
- Insurance companies often attempt to minimize the compensation they have to pay out. Our Vallejo DUI accident victim attorneys will negotiate on behalf of the victim to secure a fair settlement.
- If no agreement is reached at the negotiation table, our attorneys will continue to advocate for our client’s best interests in court proceedings.
Our DUI accident victim lawyers in Vallejo also provide support and guidance during what can be a highly stressful and difficult time. They guide the victims through the complex legal process, enabling them to focus on their recovery.
What Is Driving Under The Influence?
California Vehicle Code 23153 makes it unlawful for a person to drive while under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. The law covers the following:
- Vehicle Code 23152(a) — Driving under the influence
- Vehicle Code 23152(b) — Driving with blood alcohol concentration (BAC) level at 0.08% or higher
- Vehicle Code 23152 (f) — Driving under the influence of drugs, including prescriptions
Our Vallejo injury law firm will prove that the negligent driver violated at least one of these. Depending on the circumstances, the state may also charge them with a misdemeanor or felony. Reach out to us if you need support and representation as a victim in a DUI case.
How Do DUI Accidents Differ From Regular Car Accidents?
There are several key differences between DUI accidents and regular car accidents:
- Liability And Fault — Most of the time, in DUI accidents, the blame falls on the impaired driver. On the other hand, proving liability in regular car accidents might not be as straightforward.
- Criminal Charges — Regular car accidents typically involve only civil claims unless criminal behavior, such as reckless driving, has occurred. In DUI accidents, both civil lawsuits and criminal charges are commonly filed.
- Punitive Damages — Punitive damages are rare but usually awarded to victims of DUI accidents. These damages are intended to punish the negligent driver and discourage similar behavior.
- Insurance Claims — Insurance companies may handle DUI accident claims differently. They are often more aggressive in obtaining compensation from the drunk driver’s insurance, which may lead to faster settlements for victims.
- Evidence Collection — Proving a driver was negligent is crucial in both types of accidents. Police reports, witness testimonies, accident scene photos, vehicle damage, traffic citations, and surveillance footage can help establish liability. For DUI cases, there are additional requirements that must be satisfied. These include recorded BAC levels, field sobriety test results, alcohol containers, and any drug paraphernalia present in the vehicle during the accident.
- Legal Consequences For The Driver — An intoxicated driver faces civil liability and severe legal consequences, including fines, license suspension, and jail time. In regular car accidents, the consequences are usually limited to traffic citations and civil liabilities.
Arash Law has industry-recognized car accident lawyers specializing in DUI cases who can help you. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to schedule a free consultation with one of our Vallejo DUI accident victim lawyers. We’ve recovered more than half a billion dollars for our clients and can do the same for you.
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What Constitutes Driving Under The Influence In Vallejo?
The following are some tell-tale signs that a driver is under the influence of drugs or alcohol:
- Their breath reeks of marijuana or alcohol.
- They dumped beer cans and bottles on the side of the road.
- They’re using eye drops.
- They switched seats with their passengers.
Inform the officer responding to your accident if you observed any of these from the other party. This may prompt the officer to conduct field sobriety tests on the driver.
There are two types of DUIs under the California Vehicle Code.
Per Se DUI
A per se DUI is a charge based solely on the fact that the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) is over the legal limit. That alone already constitutes a DUI. No impairment to the driver is required. In California, the legal BAC limits are as follows:
- Commercial Vehicle Driver (CDL Or Non-CDL) — 0.04% or higher
- A Passenger For Hire Is In The Vehicle (Taxi Or Rideshare Driver) — 0.04% or higher
- Under 21 Years Old — 0.01% or higher
- 21 Years Or Older — 0.08% or higher
- Driver On DUI Probation (Any Age) — 0.01% or higher
California and, by extension, Vallejo operate on an “implied consent” system in matters of DUI. By driving on the city’s roads, a driver implicitly agrees to submit to a chemical test if they’re lawfully arrested for DUI. If a driver refuses to submit to testing, they may be charged with DUI per se. Regardless of the outcome of the DUI case, failure to comply will result in the suspension of the driver’s license.
Impairment DUI
The law also acknowledges that substances and alcohol have different effects on each person. A driver may be charged with a DUI, even if they consumed less than the legal limit. An officer may treat the driver as impaired if they are showing signs of intoxication. Such behaviors include slurred speech, erratic driving, and poor performance on field sobriety tests.
Your DUI accident victim lawyers will use these as a basis to prove that a DUI driver caused your accident. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to discuss your case.
How Alcohol Affects Driving Abilities
Driving under the influence is always dangerous. The risks are far too significant and can cause great harm to drivers, passengers, and others on the road.
Slow Reaction Times And Reduced Concentration
The presence of alcohol can affect one’s ability to react to situations. Drivers must always be prepared to respond quickly to various road hazards. Examples of these hazards are vehicles in front that make sudden brake checks, animals crossing the street, and debris flying off a truck bed. Normally, our brain can react to these hazards quickly, allowing us to swerve or stop in time. However, a driver’s reaction time is slower when they are under the influence of alcohol. As a result, they cannot avoid hazards quickly enough, resulting in accidents or injuries.
Alcohol also impairs concentration. It can make a driver easily distracted or cause them to lose focus. As a result, intoxicated drivers often engage in risky behaviors, such as fiddling with the radio or texting.
Poor Hand-Eye Coordination
Drinking alcohol harms the nervous system and interferes with motor skills. An impaired driver has poor hand-eye coordination, foot coordination, and balance — all necessary skills for driving. Specifically, research shows that a blood alcohol level of 0.015% can already affect a driver’s coordination by 20%. Hence, drunk drivers have trouble coordinating their movements.
Sobriety tests aim to check the driver’s coordination. Officers will ask suspected drunk drivers to walk in a straight line and balance on one foot. They may also be asked to follow the officer’s finger with their eyes. These tests require focus, balance, and the ability to follow instructions. Difficulty performing these tasks can indicate impairment.
Poor Judgment And Memory Loss
Alcohol also affects the brain’s cognitive functions. Intoxication reduces inhibitions and leads to rash decisions. Drinkers may decide it’s safe to drive after drinking, even if they cannot assess the risks accurately. This diminished ability to anticipate and react to road hazards significantly increases the likelihood of accidents.
Drinking may also disrupt the brain’s capability to form long-term memories, leading to blackouts. This typically happens at a BAC of 0.16% or higher. At this point, the driver may not realize what they’re doing or the possible consequences of their actions. Driving under such conditions puts the driver and others on the road at extreme risk.
Increased Chance Of Being Involved In An Accident
Drunk drivers are more likely to get into car accidents. With their impaired motor skills, decreased vision, slower reaction time, and poor judgment, they put themselves and others at risk of a collision. Worse, DUI accidents often lead to wrongful deaths.
Life-Changing Repercussions
When people drive drunk, they run the risk of being pulled over, getting into an accident, or damaging their vehicles — all of which are not worth the risk.
If you are an injured victim of a DUI accident, get in touch with our Vallejo lawyers immediately. We can help protect your rights and interests.
How Different Drugs Affect Driving
Drugs alter the normal brain and body functions, making even the most experienced and skilled driver incapable of driving safely. Prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medications that can impair driving are sought after by individuals who suffer from substance abuse. Among the long list of medications are pain relievers, antidepressants, stimulants, muscle relaxants, sedatives, anti-anxiety drugs, and many more. Sometimes, their effects can last up to 24 hours after they are consumed. The risks associated with driving under the influence of any of these drugs are extremely high.
Here are some information about drugs that should not be taken right before driving:
Depressants
Similar to alcohol, depressants, including sedatives and painkillers, impair a person’s ability to drive safely. Cough, cold, allergy medications, and other drugs that cause drowsiness may also lead to driving impairment. A combination of multiple depressants and alcohol may lead to stronger and more dangerous effects than if they were taken separately. Before going on the road, drivers should consult their doctor or a pharmacist if they’re taking prescribed or OTC drugs.
Stimulants
Some stimulants, like caffeine, may increase alertness, but they do not improve driving ability. While some amphetamines do not appear to affect driving skills, they can make people overconfident, which can lead to risky behavior on the road. At higher doses, people can become hostile and aggressive.
Cocaine users are also likely to be confident about their driving abilities. The use of this type of drug can cause blurring, glare, and hallucinations. Moreover, “snow lights,” or those small flashes of light in the peripheral field of vision, may cause drivers to swerve. They may also hear sounds and smell scents (such as smoke or gas) that aren’t there. These effects may distract drivers while they drive.
Cannabis (Marijuana) And Other Hallucinogens
Marijuana users struggle to focus, react sluggishly, and have trouble with balance, hand control, and depth perceptions. Furthermore, hallucinogenic drugs, such as LSD, ecstasy, mescaline, and psilocybin, can distort perception and mood.
If you suspect that the negligent driver was under the influence of these substances or other drugs when the accident happened, talk to our Vallejo DUI victim lawyers immediately.
Alcohol And Drug Laws
DUI laws in California cover both alcohol and drugs. It is unlawful to drive under the influence of alcohol or any other drug that interferes with your ability to drive. The law does not see a difference between illegal drugs and medications you get from a doctor or pharmacy. They can all affect your ability to drive safely and your response time. Moreover, alcohol tolerance decreases as a person ages.
Generally, regardless of age, drivers must not:
- Consume excessive amounts of alcohol, including cough syrup.
- Take any prescribed or over-the-counter medication that may impair their skills when going on the road.
- Use any combination of alcohol and drugs that reduces their ability to drive safely.
Read medication labels carefully and learn about the side effects, especially if you take them before driving.
Law enforcement officers may ask you to take a blood test or urine test if they suspect you’re driving under the influence. If you refuse, the DMV will suspend or revoke your driving privileges for a year. A teenager’s driving privileges may also be suspended or delayed (once they’re eligible to drive) for a year if they’ve been convicted of DUI while on a bicycle.
Contact us if a DUI driver caused your accident. Our Vallejo DUI accident victim lawyers have dealt with cases similar to yours. We can help you, too.
Penalties For Driving Under The Influence
DUI laws in California are strict, with escalating penalties. Here are some important details to remember:
- Blood Alcohol Concentration (BAC) — California’s BAC limit for drivers over 21 is 0.08%. The driver may be charged with DUI, regardless of BAC level, if the driver exhibits signs of impairment due to alcohol or drugs.
- First-Time Offense — A first-time DUI offender may be sentenced to six months in prison and fined up to $1,000. Their driver’s license may also be suspended for six months, and they may be required to attend DUI classes. Based on the circumstances of the case, an ignition interlock device (IID) may also be installed in the defendant’s car.
- Repeat Offenders — The penalties for subsequent DUIs within ten years are much harsher. A second or third DUI charge may result in a longer jail sentence (up to one year) and higher fines. Their license suspension will also be longer, along with mandatory DUI classes. Repeat offenders may even face felony DUI charges, especially if there are injured victims.
- Fatalities And Injuries — There is also a significant increase in penalties for DUIs that cause fatalities. Injury-causing DUIs can be treated either as misdemeanors or felonies. On the other hand, DUIs that cause death are always punished as felonies.
If you have been involved in a DUI accident, contact one of our DUI accident victim lawyers in Vallejo. Call us today at (888) 488-1391.
Common Injuries In A DUI Accident
DUI accidents often result in severe injuries and fatalities. For instance, a driver showing signs of marijuana use caused a two-vehicle collision after he made a dangerous turning maneuver. Such a crash resulted in the hospitalization of two individuals.
Here are the most common injuries associated with DUI accidents:
Whiplash
DUI accidents often result in whiplash injuries. The muscles and ligaments can get strained or sprained when the neck is abruptly and forcefully jerked forward and backward. This may result in neck pain, stiffness, and headaches. In some cases, physical therapy and rest may be sufficient, but a more comprehensive treatment may be needed for others. When you hire a knowledgeable DUI accident victim attorney in Vallejo, they can also help you get treatment for whiplash injuries.
Head Injuries
The severity of head injuries can range from mild concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBI). These injuries are often caused by the head hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or window. Some symptoms are headaches, dizziness, confusion, and loss of consciousness.
In addition to affecting cognitive and motor functions, TBIs can have long-term effects that require extensive rehabilitation. Experienced Vallejo attorneys for DUI accident victims can help you obtain the necessary compensation to cover your current and future medical bills.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Among the most severe outcomes of car accidents are spinal cord injuries. An injury to the spinal cord can cause a person to become partially or completely paralyzed, which significantly impacts their quality of life. Medical care and adaptive equipment may be needed for the duration of the victim’s life.
Broken Bones
A DUI accident can cause fractures in various body parts, including the ribs, clavicles, and pelvises. Surgical procedures, casting, and physical therapy may be necessary to heal these injuries properly. However, complications like infections or improper healing may arise and cause long-term disability. Our Vallejo DUI accident victim lawyers can help you recover medical expenses, rehabilitation costs, and lost wages.
Internal Injuries
DUI accident victims may suffer internal injuries that are not immediately noticeable. Such injuries may include internal bleeding, ruptured blood vessels, and organ damage. These are serious bodily injuries that can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. Hence, prompt medical attention and evaluation are crucial. Treatment for these injuries can be quite costly, but that shouldn’t hinder the victim from receiving medical care. Your personal injury attorney in Vallejo can help ensure you receive fair compensation for any medical intervention you need.
Psychological Injuries
In addition to physical injuries, DUI accidents can result in psychological harm to the victims. These include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression, which may all affect a victim’s daily life.
Wrongful Death
Family members who lose a loved one in a DUI accident are left with an unrecoverable void in their lives. Losing a loved one in a drunk driving accident results in profound emotional pain and lasting emotional trauma for the surviving family members. In addition, they may struggle with medical expenses, funeral costs, and the loss of financial support that the deceased would have provided.
If you lost someone you love, we are here to offer support and legal expertise. Our team can help you receive compensation for the financial loss and emotional pain caused by the death of your loved one. In one of our cases, we were able to obtain maximum policy limits amounting to $6 million for a client who lost his wife in a head-on collision with a drunk driver.
What we did for him and many others, we can do for you, too. Call us at (888) 488-1391 to talk with one of our Vallejo DUI accident victim lawyers. Together, we can obtain justice and secure compensation for your tragic loss.
Our client suffered serious injuries after he was run over by a speeding vehicle. Aside from achieving a monumental financial recovery, our firm was able to secure the best medical care and treatment to ensure that he recovered from his injuries with the best medical team in the nation. We are happy to deliver closure and peace to a nice family.– BRIAN BEECHER
How Will Our DUI Accident Victim Attorneys Prove Negligence And Liability?
Our goal when investigating a DUI accident is to determine the cause of the crash and who is responsible for it. To do this, our DUI accident victim attorneys in Vallejo will help you establish the following elements of negligence:
- Duty Of Care — Every driver has a duty of care to others when operating their motor vehicles.
- Breach Of Duty — Drivers are usually considered to have breached their duty of care by operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. We must establish that the driver operated a motor vehicle unsafely. Specifically, what did they do that caused the accident?
- Causation — The driver’s intoxication directly caused the accident. This requires evidence linking the driver’s impairment to the specific actions that led to the collision.
- Damages — Lastly, we must establish that you sustained damages because of the accident. We can only file a claim for the damages directly incurred from the DUI accident.
Our Vallejo DUI accident victim attorneys will help you prove the intoxicated driver’s negligence and liability. With the help of experts, our legal team will conduct a thorough investigation to prove that the other party caused the accident that resulted in your injuries.
Who Can Be Held Liable For DUI Crashes In Vallejo, California?
The Drunk Or Drugged Driver
If the intoxicated driver acted negligently and caused the accident, property damage, and injuries, they might bear the financial responsibility for the resulting injuries, damages, and losses. The amount you can recover depends on several factors, including the driver’s insurance coverage. Unfortunately, some drunk drivers may not have insurance or have inadequate coverage to compensate you fully. If this is the case, the uninsured motorist clause of your auto insurance policy may provide compensation.
Employer
Employers may also be held accountable for accidents caused by an employee who is drunk or under the influence of drugs or alcohol while on the job. It is also possible for employers to be held liable for the actions of their employees who get drunk at company events where alcohol is provided.
Adults Who Gave Alcohol To A Minor
In California, third-party liability also applies for DUI-related injuries when an intoxicated minor is involved. Victims of drunk drivers can also sue the adult who supplied the alcohol to a minor, perhaps during a party or a social gathering.
Other parties not mentioned here, who may be liable for the accident, can also be sued. Our Vallejo lawyers specializing in DUI accidents can help identify all parties that may be liable for your losses.
Types Of Compensation Victims Can Recover
Drunk and drugged driving accident victims in California are entitled to two types of compensation: economic and non-economic.
- Economic Damages — These damages compensate you for financial losses directly related to the accident. They cover wages you lost because you were unable to work due to your injury. Medical expenses, such as hospital bills, surgery and rehabilitation costs, and ongoing medical care, are also covered.
- Non-Economic Damages — You can claim compensation for intangible losses. These pertain to the damage caused by the accident and its aftermath, which includes psychological trauma and emotional distress. Compensation also covers pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life. Non-economic damages are not capped in California, allowing victims to seek compensation that accurately reflects their suffering.
DUI accident victims may also be entitled to punitive damages. These are intended to deter others from engaging in similar actions by punishing the DUI driver for their reckless behavior. Consult one of our industry-recognized DUI accident victim lawyers in Vallejo to determine which types of damages you may be entitled to.
What To Do After A Drunk Driving Accident In Vallejo, California
Check For Injuries
Immediately check yourself and others involved in the accident for any injuries. Look for visible signs like bruises, cuts, or fractures, and be mindful of any pain or discomfort that might indicate internal injuries.
Ensure Safety
Your safety and the safety of others should be your top priority. If the accident is in a dangerous location, such as the middle of a busy road, try to move yourself and any injured parties to a safer area away from traffic, if possible, and without worsening any injuries.
Report The Accident
Call 911 or ask bystanders to make the call for you. Law enforcement personnel are needed to document the scene. Depending on where the accident occurs, the Vallejo police, Solano County Sheriff’s Department, or California Highway Patrol may respond. These officers can conduct sobriety tests, arrest the intoxicated driver, and file official reports.
Seek Prompt Medical Attention
Paramedics will arrive as part of the emergency responders. They will perform first aid based on your symptoms. If they advise you to proceed to the nearest hospital for more extensive treatment and care, do so. This will allow you to recover more quickly and document your injuries and the treatment you received.
Gather Information
While waiting for the authorities, try to collect as much information as possible. This should include the other driver’s name, contact information, and insurance details. Also, the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw the accident should be obtained. Their statements may be valuable later.
Document The Incident
Use your phone to take photos and videos of the accident scene. Capture the damage to all vehicles involved, your injuries, and any visible signs that the other driver might be intoxicated, such as alcohol bottles in their vehicle. This visual evidence can serve as critical evidence in your case.
Call An Experienced Attorney
Reach out to reputable DUI accident attorneys in Vallejo as soon as possible. A skilled lawyer will help protect your rights and ensure the responsible parties are held accountable. For experienced legal assistance, you can contact our dedicated DUI accident attorneys at (888) 488-1391.
What’s Next After Securing An Attorney?
To ensure you will receive fair compensation for your DUI accident, here are other steps that you may take:
- You can inform your insurance company about the accident. However, choose your words carefully. You should never lie about what happened, but over-apologizing or offering too much information can backfire. Provide only the basic details, as anything you say may be used to reduce your claim. Furthermore, do not sign or agree to anything without talking to a lawyer first.
- A lawyer can help you avoid lowball offers that do not fully compensate for your damages. DUI accident victim lawyers in Vallejo can handle all communications and negotiations with your insurer. They will protect your rights and interests throughout the process.
- Keep all receipts, invoices, and documents related to the case, including emergency transportation, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation, medications, and medical equipment. Also, record how many work days you missed and how much income you lost because of the DUI crash. Your Vallejo DUI accident victim attorney will use these to determine the amount of damages you can claim.
- Check whether the driver has pleaded guilty or been convicted following their arrest. It may significantly boost your case if the driver is criminally charged or found guilty. Nonetheless, remember that these are not requirements for you to file a civil personal injury or wrongful death claim.
Our Vallejo DUI accident victim lawyers can help you seek justice and obtain maximum compensation for your damages.
California Statute Of Limitations For DUI Accidents
Under California Civil Code Section 335.1, the injured party or accident victim generally has two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for their losses. This deadline helps prevent delays that could result in the loss of evidence or the unavailability of witnesses, potentially harming the plaintiff’s case.
Some exceptions to the two-year period exist. For instance, the time limit for filing a claim against a government agency is only six months from the incident, after which the claim may be barred. When it’s been six months, and you haven’t filed a claim, you may appeal to a court for a late claim. However, this process can be complex, so it may be best to consult a personal injury attorney for guidance. Our Vallejo DUI accident victim lawyers can also help ensure prompt filing.
Vallejo DUI Accident Statistics
In 2023, the Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS) recorded a total of 21 traffic-related serious injuries and fatalities due to alcohol and drug use in Vallejo. Of these incidents, four involved drugs, while the remaining 17 were alcohol-related. This data indicates a troubling trend in the city, with alcohol-related fatalities and injuries rising steadily over the past few years; there were ten such incidents in 2020, 12 in 2021, and 15 in 2022.
This concerning trend shows how many lives continue to be disrupted by drunk and drugged drivers. Our Vallejo lawyers remain committed to helping DUI accident victims move forward and recover what they’re due.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Hiring A DUI Lawyer Worth It?
After a DUI accident, you might be wondering, “Do I need a personal injury lawyer?” The answer is yes. DUI cases can be extremely complicated in California. In the context of DUI-related truck accidents, disputes about liability and how much the truck company or the driver owes you might arise during the claims process. However, a truck accident attorney who is knowledgeable in DUI cases can help control the situation and steer your case in the right direction.
Hiring one of our Vallejo DUI accident victim attorneys will give you the best possible representation. We understand your rights and have experience in complex DUI cases. Ensuring maximum compensation is our goal, so we won’t stop unless we obtain a favorable settlement or verdict.
Can The Use Of Prescription Or OTC Medication Result In A DUI?
Yes, just like alcohol, prescription or over-the-counter medications can impair a driver’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. If a medication affects a driver’s motor skills, judgment, or reaction time, it can lead to a DUI charge. It is especially important to avoid drugs that are known to cause drowsiness and reckless driving behaviors.
Even if the driver wasn’t under the influence of alcohol, they can still be held liable if medication impairment contributed to the accident. Our DUI accident victim lawyers in Vallejo can build a strong case demonstrating the driver’s negligence.
What Should I Do If A Drunk Driver Hits Me?
While drunk driving accidents are often devastating, they are still vehicular accidents, and you will likely have to file an insurance claim first. Since California is an “at-fault” state, the driver responsible for causing the accident is also responsible for the damage.
Filing a lawsuit is sometimes more beneficial than accepting a meager settlement amount. Examples are if your damages exceed their policy limits or their insurance company offers an unfair settlement. Depending on the situation, your Vallejo DUI accident victim attorneys can provide legal advice on whether to litigate or settle.
Can I File A Claim Even If I’m Partially At-Fault For The Accident?
Even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still file a claim against the drunk driver who caused your injuries. Since California is a pure comparative negligence state, the judge or jury may assign fault to multiple parties. Unfortunately, this also means that the intoxicated driver’s legal counsel will likely try to minimize the cost to their client by putting more blame on you. Our Vallejo DUI accident victim attorneys can help you counter such tactics.
What Is The Average Settlement Payout For A DUI Victim In California?
DUI settlements generally vary based on the severity of the damage caused by the accident. Associated costs, such as medical bills and lost wages, are also contributing factors. As with other personal injury claims, the settlement amount may range from a few thousand to seven figures.
Our experienced DUI accident victim lawyers in Vallejo can identify and assess your tangible and intangible damages. Call us today at (888) 488-1391 to discuss how we can help you obtain maximum compensation.
How Long Does It Take To Settle An Injury Claim?
An injury claim for DUI can take a few months to two years to settle. The timeline for your case will depend on its complexity and whether experts, witnesses, depositions, or other factors are required. For example, cases involving serious injuries, multiple parties, or complex legal issues tend to take longer. Negotiations can also be time-consuming if the insurance company refuses to settle.
If you hire DUI accident victim attorneys from Arash Law, we’ll be with you throughout the process. Our legal team will also always keep you updated on all developments in your case.
Is The Drunk Driver Always At Fault For A DUI Accident?
The driver’s DUI conviction could strengthen your case. Nevertheless, you will have to show that a sober driver would have been able to avoid the accident. Additionally, California observes the pure comparative negligence rule. This means that the judge or jury may acknowledge that more than one driver may have caused the accident. Hence, you may be partially at fault if you were speeding or violating the law during the crash.
Our DUI accident victim lawyers in Vallejo can help determine if the drunk driver is solely or partially at fault. We have a network of experts who can help conduct a thorough investigation. Moreover, if you are partially liable, we’ll aggressively protect your rights and ensure you don’t shoulder more blame than you deserve. Our goal is to maximize your compensation, even if you’re partially at fault.
Can Undocumented Immigrants Recover Compensation As Victims Of DUI Accidents In Vallejo?
Undocumented DUI accident victims can also file a personal injury or wrongful death claim against the negligent party. You may be entitled to recover compensation for your damages if you are an undocumented immigrant injured in a DUI accident. This includes compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you’re an undocumented immigrant needing legal representation, our Vallejo DUI accident victim lawyers can assist you in filing a claim against the intoxicated driver.
Consult The DUI Accident Victim Lawyers Vallejo Has To Offer!
Getting injured in an accident caused by a drunk or drugged driver is traumatizing enough. You don’t deserve the additional financial burden of medical expenses and lost wages. Let us help. Arash Law, led by the esteemed Arash Khorsandi, Esq., offers a free initial consultation where you can discuss your case and learn more about your legal options.
Don’t hesitate to call us at (888) 488-1391. Our Vallejo DUI accident victim lawyers will handle all the legwork so you can focus on your recovery. We’ve recovered more than $500 million in compensation for our clients, and we want to help you, too.
Our Vallejo lawyers also help victims of car accidents, truck accidents, Uber accidents, product liability claims, dog bites, and other types of personal injury cases. We serve Solano County and the neighboring cities, including Vacaville, Suisun, Rio Vista, Fairfield, Benicia, Dixon, Richmond, Napa, Albana, and Concord.
