DUI Crash
One of the main issues on the road over the holidays is drunk driving. The NHTSA’s highway signs that say “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” or “Don’t Drink and Drive” may be familiar to you; they are particularly crucial during the month of December. During the holidays, a lot of individuals travel and go to events that serve alcohol.
You have the right to sue the careless motorist for damages if you or a loved one was hurt in a DUI collision in California. Call (562) 376-5595 to speak with a Cerritos auto accident attorney about your legal options.
Drunk Driving Accident Statistics
Every year, drunk driving results in over 10,000 fatalities nationwide. The NHTSA reports that 13,384 people lost their lives in alcohol-impaired car accidents in 2021. All these deaths were avoidable, as the administration points out.
In 2020, there were 26,132 accidents in Los Angeles that resulted in fatalities and injuries. Alcohol was a factor in 2,282 of these auto accidents. Over 4,000 drivers were taken into custody and accused with DUI.
DUI Laws in California
There may be serious consequences from a DUI case. California has a legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit of 0.08%, just like the majority of states. Driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or more can result in a DUI charge, which can be either a misdemeanor or a felony. However, regardless of your blood alcohol content (BAC), you may also be charged with DUI if you are impaired by any amount of drugs or alcohol.
Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are synonymous terms in California. These are both major violations that carry penalties, jail time, and license suspension. DUI offenders are also required by some legislation to install an ignition interlock device (IID), which will start the engine only when the motorist provides a breath sample.
If a motorist has a minor passenger in the car, causes serious injury or death to another person, or refuses to undergo a breathalyzer test, the penalties escalate.
What to Do After an Accident With a Drunk Driver
You must act quickly to protect your health and legal rights if an intoxicated driver strikes and injures you. Following an automobile collision, if you are able, do the following:
1. Call the police
You must call the police to establish someone was driving while intoxicated. To verify their blood alcohol content (BAC) and classify the collision as a DUI, the police officer will conduct a field sobriety test and a breathalyzer test.
2. Exchange information
Find out the other driver’s name, address, phone number, license plate number, driver’s license number, and insurance company information. Additionally, if there are witnesses, get their contact details.
3. Gather evidence
Take pictures or videos of the accident scene, documenting your injuries, the damage to your car, and any relevant traffic rules. Jot down anything you can recall about the accident once you’re at home.
4. Seek medical attention
It is crucial to get medical help right away, whether from an emergency department physician or your general care physician, regardless of the kind of DUI automobile accident you are in. This will establish medical records and demonstrate that the accident caused your injuries.
5. Talk to a car accident lawyer
Speak with a knowledgeable auto accident attorney before contacting the other party’s insurance provider. Making any mistakes could make it more difficult for you to get just compensation from the person who is at fault.
Call a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Our personal injury team at Heritage Accident Lawyers is committed to helping victims of traffic accidents. Our company will assist you in obtaining damages for your medical expenses, lost income, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses if you were hurt in an impaired driving collision.
When filing a personal injury claim, an experienced auto accident attorney can guide you through the legal maze. We will guide you on your path to recovery and help you understand the rules established by the California courts.
Our personal injury legal practice operates on a contingency fee basis, which means that we don’t get paid up advance until we get you a verdict. Cerritos and other parts of Los Angeles are served by us. including Downey, La Mirada, Norwalk, and Santa Fe Springs. Get in touch with us right now to schedule a free consultation.
