Los Angeles Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer | Jacoby & Meyers
Call Now / Open 24/7
Phone (888) 522-6291
Español

Los Angeles Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Car accidents remain a leading cause of personal injuries in Los Angeles and the surrounding area. In addition, drunk driving is one of the most common offenses for which police officers make arrests. When we combine these two facts, it is not uncommon for drunk driving to be a factor in serious roadway injuries.

While drunk driving is against the law, the fact that another driver was intoxicated does not automatically establish a successful claim for compensation. The burden remains on the injured party to show that another driver’s actions caused their losses. Because these losses may be significant, the outcome of a civil claim can have an important impact.

Our Los Angeles car accident lawyers represent individuals in drunk driving accident cases. The legal professionals at the Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices can evaluate the connection between an alleged DUI and the accident and prepare a demand package supported by the available evidence. Contact us at (888) 522-6291 to schedule a free consultation.

Driving While Drunk Is Both a Criminal Act and Extremely Reckless

According to the California Vehicle Code (VEH) §23152, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while intoxicated. However, a criminal prosecution for drunk driving does not result in compensation being awarded to an injured person. To pursue financial recovery, an injured party must file a separate civil claim.

That said, the two cases can affect one another. Drivers have a duty to operate their vehicles with reasonable care. Driving under the influence may be considered a breach of that duty. An injured person must still prove that the intoxicated driver’s conduct caused the crash and resulting damages.

In some situations, a criminal conviction for DUI—whether through a plea or trial—may establish that the driver was intoxicated beyond a reasonable doubt. Under the legal doctrine of res judicata, certain issues decided in criminal court may not be relitigated in civil court.

As a result, a civil court may not allow a convicted drunk driver to dispute intoxication at the time of the incident. A car accident lawyer can provide more information about what must be proven in a civil claim and how a related criminal case may affect the process.

Drunk Drivers Who Cause Accidents Are Liable for Your Losses

The goal of a personal injury claim is to seek compensation for losses caused by another party’s conduct. In general terms, this means pursuing payment intended to address the financial and personal impact of the accident.

A detailed review of how the incident has affected your life can help determine the value of a claim. Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices can work with you to assess documented losses. These often include the cost of medical care, such as ambulance transportation, emergency room treatment, and follow-up care. In more serious cases, damages may also include projected future medical expenses.

It may also be possible to pursue compensation for non-economic damages. These can include pain and suffering, emotional distress, reduced quality of life, and lost income. If an accident has affected your life beyond medical expenses, you may be able to seek recovery from the at-fault driver. To learn more, contact Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices at (888) 522-6291.

Possible Limitations on Drunk Driving Accident Claims

The fact that another driver appeared intoxicated at the time of a collision does not automatically result in financial recovery. Courts evaluating personal injury cases consider the conduct of all involved parties and assign fault accordingly.

While intoxication may play a significant role, if the other driver alleges that you contributed to the crash—for example, by driving without headlights, ignoring a stop sign, or failing to signal—this may affect the outcome. Under California’s comparative fault rules, a court may reduce compensation in proportion to your share of responsibility.

Another limitation involves the statute of limitations. This legal deadline determines how long an injured person has to file a lawsuit. Under California Code of Civil Procedure (CCP) §335.1, individuals generally have two years from the date of injury to file a personal injury lawsuit.

Certain exceptions may apply, including circumstances involving related criminal proceedings. A personal injury lawyer can review your situation and explain the deadlines that may govern your claim.

Speak With a Los Angeles Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Every person who suffers personal injuries because of the poor decisions of other parties deserves the A person who suffers injuries due to another party’s conduct has the right to pursue compensation under California law. However, the injured party must still establish fault and damages through evidence.

A car accident lawyer in Los Angeles, CA can review your situation and explain how drunk driving laws may intersect with a civil claim. The legal team at Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices can gather evidence, monitor related criminal proceedings when applicable, and evaluate documented losses in support of your claim.

Contact us at(888) 522-6291 for your free consultation.

Our Los Angeles Accident Attorneys can also help with the following:

Disclaimer: This content does not constitute legal advice. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts.

Jacoby & Meyers Injury Lawyers