Drunk Driving in California
Without a doubt, drunk driving accidents are a significant problem in California. Despite the efforts of advocacy groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD), DUI accidents remain alarmingly high in the state. Drunk driving also remains one of the main causes of motor vehicle related fatalities in the state, accounting for a full 63 percent of motor vehicle accident fatalities. This means that more than 1,800 Californians are killed each year by intoxicated drivers.
California Law
Under California law, any person who causes an accident while driving under the influence of alcohol or other controlled substances generally faces two types of litigation – criminal and civil. A drunk driver may face criminal charges and be sent to prison if found guilty of the crime; the hope being that the risk of prison will deter people from driving under the influence. In addition to criminal charges, the victims of the drunk driver may also pursue a civil action against the offending driver. This means that the victims can seek compensation from the negligent DUI motorist who caused the accident.
Sadly, civil liability will offer little comfort to those who have suffered serious injuries or lost a loved one in an alcohol-related accident. Although financial compensation may be of little comfort to DUI accident related victims and their loved ones, it will help bring a sense of justice, as well as providing the financial means necessary to cover any related medical bills. A motorist who is convicted of a DUI is liable to pay for all resulting damages.
Damages Available for DUI Accident Victims
Depending on the specific facts of the case, the victim of the DUI accident may be able to seek the following damages:
- Related medical bills
- Future medical expenses
- Lost income
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional and mental trauma
- Disfigurement
- Physical impairment
- Property damage
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Burial and funeral expenses
- Punitive damages to punish and deter similar behavior in the future
Protect Your Rights With an Experienced Los Angeles DUI Accident Attorney
The legal team at the Law Offices of Vahdat & Aboudi understands the life-altering injuries and devastation caused by DUI related accidents. We will work tirelessly to make sure that the drunk driving offenders are held responsible for the injuries they caused to the victims. We have the experience, passion and resources to help DUI accident victims recover the full compensation they are entitled to under the law. We fight to make sure innocent victims are compensated for the negligent actions of DUI offenders. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, contact us for a free consultation. Our Los Angeles DUI accident attorneys treat all of our clients with sympathy and compassion, while aggressively working to hold the responsible parties liable and getting you the compensation that you deserve.
Please call us at 1-800-BUT-4-LAW to discuss your case with an expert Los Angeles DUI accident attorney.