Drunk driving continues to be a major public health headache in California. Most drunk driving accidents are tragic, causing severe injuries, emotional trauma, and even loss of life. DUI accident victims deserve justice, and DUI accident victims deserve justice.
If you have been involved in a drunk driving accident in Riverside, CA, you need an experienced and compassionate drunk driving accident attorney. At JLF Firm, we’re passionate about fighting for your rights and helping you secure the compensation you deserve. Please contact our experienced car accident lawyers for legal guidance, and we’ll work for your recovery.
How Does Alcohol Affect Another Driver?
Alcohol is a substance that can impair a driver’s ability to operate a car safely. When someone chooses to drive when drunk, they endanger their own life as well as the lives of those on the road.
Alcohol affects the driver’s ability to drive safely.
Here’s how:
- Alcohol decreases coordination, making it more difficult to control a vehicle.
- Alcohol affects vision and perception, making it more difficult to see and accurately judge distances.
- Alcohol slows down reaction times, making it more challenging to respond to unexpected situations on the road.
- Alcohol impairs judgment, resulting in poor driving decisions such as speeding or making risky lane changes.
What is the Legal Limit in California?
Driving with a BAC of 0.08% or above is illegal in California. A BAC of 0.01% or greater will result in a license suspension for drivers under 21 or on probation for a DUI offense.
It is illegal to operate a vehicle with a BAC of 0.04% or higher if driving a car needing a CDL or a BAC of 0.04% or higher if driving a passenger for hire. In any of these instances, the driver could be prosecuted for intoxicated driving.
Civil vs. Criminal Cases Against Drunk Drivers
Drunk driving accidents can result in both civil and criminal cases. In a criminal case, the state prosecutes the drunk driver for breaking the law. The prosecutor seeks to impose penalties such as fines, license suspension, and even jail time.
On the other hand, a civil case allows victims of drunk driving accidents to seek fair financial compensation for their losses, including:
- Lost income
- Medical bills
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage repairs
Any criminal case brought against a drunk driver will be a separate legal proceeding from a civil personal injury case. Injured victims cannot access the full and fair financial compensation they deserve in criminal court.
Compensation for Drunk Driving Accident Victims
Drunk driving accidents can cause severe and life-threatening injuries to innocent victims. Fortunately, the legal system provides drunk driving accident victims with a way to seek compensation for their damages.
You’ll need to bring a personal injury claim in civil court. It could make the drunk driver’s insurance company pay a fair compensation amount to help cover medical expenses, lost income, and other costs associated with the accident.
However, pursuing compensation can be a complex and challenging process. That’s why working with an experienced drunk driving accident attorney who can guide you through the legal system and help you achieve the best possible outcome is crucial.
How an Attorney Can Help You Get the Compensation You Deserve
An experienced drunk driving accident attorney can help you obtain your deserved compensation. They can identify all available sources, including insurance policies, and maximize your recovery. A skilled drunk driving attorney can also fight for your right to compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, and pain and suffering.
A drunk driving accident attorney can help you navigate the legal system and handle your case correctly. They can help you understand your legal rights and options and provide the guidance and support you need.
If you or your loved one has been in a drunk driving accident, it’s vital to seek the assistance of a qualified attorney. They can give you legal counsel, obtain your deserved compensation, and move forward with your healing.
Find the Right Riverside Drunk Driving Accident Attorney for Your Case
Choosing the right Riverside drunk driving accident attorney can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. At JLF Firm, our attorneys take care of the legal legwork of your case while you concentrate on recovery.
Our team will investigate what happened in the drunk driving accident, gather evidence, and work with experts to determine the full extent of your injuries and damages. We’ll then use this information to negotiate with insurance companies and fight for a fair settlement.
Don’t hesitate to reach out for help after a drunk driving accident. Contact us today for a confidential consultation with our committed Riverside drunk driving accident attorneys.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pursue compensation if the drunk driver was arrested?
You can still pursue compensation through a civil case even if the drunk driver was arrested and facing criminal charges. Criminal and civil cases are separate legal proceedings with different objectives. While the criminal case seeks punishment for the offender, a civil case focuses on compensating the victim for their injuries and losses.
How long do I have to file a drunk driving accident claim?
California has a limited time frame, known as the statute of limitations, within which you must file a drunk driving accident claim. It is crucial to consult with an attorney promptly to ensure you meet the necessary deadlines and preserve your right to seek compensation.
