Drunk driving accidents are among the most devastating types of crashes, often resulting in severe injuries, emotional trauma, and significant financial burdens for victims. If you’ve been injured in a DUI-related accident in Los Angeles, California, working with an experienced personal injury attorney in Los Angeles can make all the difference in your recovery and pursuit of justice. At The Krolikowski Law Firm, we have experience in advocating for victims of drunk driving accidents, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.
Understanding Drunk Driving Accidents in Los Angeles
Los Angeles’ bustling streets and highways make it particularly vulnerable to drunk driving incidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), impaired driving remains a leading cause of traffic fatalities nationwide. California’s legal limit for blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08%, but even lower levels of impairment can lead to catastrophic accidents.
Challenges Victims Face After a DUI Accident
Victims of drunk driving accidents often face unique challenges, including:
- Severe Injuries: Common injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, and internal injuries.
- Emotional Trauma: The intentional nature of drunk driving adds a layer of emotional distress for victims and their families.
- Financial Strain: Medical bills, lost wages, and property damage can quickly add up, leaving victims overwhelmed.
- Insurance Battles: Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts, complicating the recovery process.
How Personal Injury Attorneys Advocate for Victims
Hiring a personal injury attorney in Los Angeles ensures you have an experienced advocate on your side. Here’s how attorneys at The Krolikowski Law Firm help victims of drunk driving accidents:
- Conducting a Thorough Investigation Your attorney will gather evidence to establish liability, including:
- Police reports and arrest records
- Witness statements
- Toxicology reports and BAC test results
- Surveillance footage
- This comprehensive approach strengthens your case against the impaired driver.
- Proving Negligence To hold the drunk driver accountable, your attorney must demonstrate:
- Duty of care: The driver owed you a responsibility to operate their vehicle safely.
- Breach of duty: The driver’s decision to drive under the influence violated this responsibility.
- Causation: The driver’s actions directly caused your injuries.
- Damages: You suffered losses as a result of the accident.
- Calculating Fair Compensation Personal injury attorneys ensure that all damages are accounted for, including:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
- In some cases, attorneys may pursue punitive damages to penalize the drunk driver and deter similar behavior in the future.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts. Your attorney will handle all communications, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive a fair settlement.
- Representing You in Court If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your attorney will file a lawsuit and advocate for you in court. Their goal is to present a compelling case to secure the compensation you deserve.
California Laws and Drunk Driving Accidents
Understanding California’s DUI laws is essential for building a strong case. Key aspects include:
- Criminal vs. Civil Cases: While the drunk driver may face criminal charges, a personal injury claim is a separate civil matter focused on compensating victims.
- Dram Shop Liability: In some cases, establishments that served alcohol to the impaired driver may also be held liable under California’s dram shop laws.
- Statute of Limitations: Victims typically have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit in California.
Steps to Take After a Drunk Driving Accident
If you’ve been injured in a DUI-related accident, taking the following steps can strengthen your case:
- Seek Medical Attention Your health and safety should be your top priority. Prompt medical care also provides documentation of your injuries.
- Report the Accident Contact law enforcement to ensure the incident is documented in a police report.
- Gather Evidence Take photos of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Collect contact information from witnesses.
- Avoid Speaking with Insurance Adjusters Let your attorney handle communications to prevent misstatements that could harm your case.
- Contact a Personal Injury Attorney Reach out to The Krolikowski Law Firm for a free consultation to discuss your case and explore your legal options.
Why Choose The Krolikowski Law Firm?
At The Krolikowski Law Firm, we understand the devastating impact of drunk driving accidents. Our experienced personal injury attorneys in Los Angeles are dedicated to helping victims rebuild their lives by securing fair compensation. With a compassionate approach and a proven track record, we’ll stand by your side every step of the way.
Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, don’t navigate the legal process alone. Contact The Krolikowski Law Firm today for a free consultation. Let us fight for justice on your behalf while you focus on recovery.