Los Angeles Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer

Car accidents are a leading cause of injury in Los Angeles, and drunk driving is one of the most common reasons for arrests. However, even if the other driver was intoxicated, it doesn’t guarantee you’ll win your compensation claim. You still have to prove that the other driver’s actions caused your substantial losses. The outcome of your case is vital to your future.

The experienced Los Angeles drunk driving accident lawyers at Jacoby & Meyers provide the aggressive legal representation you need to hold the responsible party accountable and pursue compensation based on the facts and applicable law.

• 50+ years of service to Californians, backed by real client testimonials you can trust.
• Over $2 billion recovered through verdicts and settlements, reflected in our case results. Results vary depending on the facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.
• We work on a contingency fee basis. Attorney’s fees are only paid if compensation is recovered. The fee structure is explained clearly during your free case evaluation.

Since 1972, We Have Protected the Rights of Injured Californians

For over 50 years, Jacoby & Meyers has remained dedicated to a single mission: providing high-quality legal services to the people of California. With 14 locations throughout the state and a deep history in Los Angeles, we have the resources and experience to handle the most serious personal injury cases. We understand that a drunk driving accident disrupts your life, your health, and your financial stability. We are here to help you rebuild.

Trust our dedicated team to review your case with an expert assessment or request a free consultation today.

Can I Afford a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer?

We understand that following a serious accident, financial stress is often a primary concern. You may be facing mounting medical bills, vehicle repair costs, and a loss of income while you recover. The last thing you need is another bill.

Jacoby & Meyers operates on a contingency fee basis. This ensures that every Californian has access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their current financial situation.

• No Upfront Attorney Costs: You pay nothing out of pocket to start your case.
• No Hourly Fees: We do not bill you by the hour for phone calls or paperwork.
• Contingency Fee Arrangement Available: Attorney’s fees may depend on whether compensation is recovered; in many cases, if there is no recovery, attorney’s fees are not charged. Terms are explained clearly during consultation.

What To Do After a Drunk Driving Accident

• Get medical care immediately: Even if you feel “okay,” serious injuries can show up later. Follow all treatment plans and keep every appointment.
• Document what you can: If you’re able, take photos of the vehicles, the scene, and your injuries. These details can help show the true impact of what happened.
• Be careful with insurance calls: Adjusters may sound helpful, but they’re trained to reduce payouts. Don’t give a recorded statement without legal guidance.
• Save important evidence: Keep police reports, medical records, receipts, and witness contact information.
• Talk to a drunk driving accident lawyer before settling: Drunk driving cases can involve serious injuries and long-term costs. An attorney can help evaluate settlement offers and explain your legal options.

Expert Legal Tip from Our Attorneys

While a police report indicating a DUI arrest is powerful evidence, it is rarely the only evidence needed to maximize a civil claim. Insurance companies often dispute the extent of the damages or argue that the victim contributed to the collision. Building a winning case often requires securing additional evidence early, such as surveillance footage from nearby businesses or credit card receipts establishing the driver’s alcohol consumption timeline. Securing this evidence immediately is vital, as video footage and data are often deleted within days of an incident.

Common Causes of Drunk Driving Accidents in Los Angeles

In Los Angeles, the combination of notorious traffic and alcohol often leads to catastrophic results. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, there were 6,200 victims killed and injured in alcohol-related crashes in 2023 alone. Drunk drivers endanger everyone on our congested freeways and surface streets due to their reduced reaction times, impaired judgment, and lack of coordination.

Common behaviors associated with intoxicated driving include:

• Wrong-way driving: This is particularly common on major freeways like the I-405, US-101, and I-10 late at night.
• Speeding: Alcohol often lowers inhibitions, leading to reckless speeds on surface streets.
• Failure to yield: Intoxicated drivers frequently run red lights or stop signs at intersections.
• Drifting between lanes: We often see cases where drivers sideswipe vehicles on multi-lane roads like Santa Monica Boulevard or Wilshire Boulevard.
• Delayed braking: Impaired reaction times often result in high-impact rear-end collisions, especially in heavy traffic.
• Driving without headlights: At night, drunk drivers often forget to engage their lights, making them nearly invisible to other motorists until it is too late.
• Inconsistent speeds: Drivers may fluctuate between speeding and driving dangerously slow, creating unpredictable hazards for everyone on the road.

Common Injuries in These Cases

Drunk driving accidents often occur at high speeds or involve head-on collisions, resulting in severe, life-altering injuries.

A 2020 study by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed a direct link between the number of establishments selling alcohol and hospitalizations for alcohol-related issues. The research showed that areas with more bars, restaurants, and liquor stores had significantly higher rates of such hospitalizations.

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs): Ranging from concussions to severe, permanent cognitive impairment.
• Spinal cord injuries: These can result in partial or total paralysis.
• Broken bones: Fractures often require surgery and long-term physical therapy.
• Internal injuries: Damage to organs often requires emergency intervention.
• Soft tissue injuries: Whiplash and other soft tissue damage can cause chronic pain.

Who May Be Liable After a Drunk Driving Accident?

A drunk driving crash is a result of a reckless choice, and victims are often left paying the price in pain, fear, and financial stress. While the drunk driver is usually the main person responsible, they may not be the only party that can be held accountable. A full investigation can uncover additional sources of compensation that may be critical to your recovery.

Liability may include:

• The drunk driver: The person who chose to get behind the wheel while impaired.
• An employer: If the drunk driver was working at the time (delivery driver, commercial driver, etc.), their employer may share responsibility.
• The vehicle owner: If someone knowingly allows an unsafe driver to borrow their car, they may be liable for negligent entrustment.
• A manufacturer: If a defect, like brake failure or an airbag malfunction, made the crash worse.
• A government entity: If a dangerous roadway condition contributed, such as a broken traffic signal, a missing guardrail, or an unsafe road design.

Why Drunk Driving Accident Claims Can Be Legally Complex

Even when the drunk driver’s fault seems obvious, insurance companies may dispute liability or damages.

Common issues include:

• Comparative negligence arguments: The defense may try to blame you (even partially) to lower your compensation.
• Low insurance coverage: Many DUI drivers carry minimum policies that don’t come close to covering serious injuries.
• Evidence that can disappear: BAC results, dashcam footage, and witness accounts can be lost without early legal action.
• Medical causation disputes: Insurers may claim your injuries were “pre-existing” instead of caused by the crash.
• Punitive damages requirements: DUI cases may allow punitive damages, but they require stronger proof and strategic legal handling.

Experienced drunk driving attorneys act swiftly to obtain and preserve essential evidence such as BAC test results, witness statements, and video footage. They understand the urgency in preventing this evidence from being lost or tampered with. Beyond legal expertise, compassionate attorneys ensure their clients feel supported and informed throughout the legal process, reducing stress during a difficult time.

Our Personal Injury Case Results

Our personal injury attorneys have recovered over $2 billion in settlements on behalf of local accident victims in San Francisco and throughout the Bay Area. Some of our personal injury case results include:

Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome. Amounts listed are gross recoveries before attorney fees and costs.

Damages You May Be Entitled To

Drunk driving victims in California may be able to pursue compensation for both financial losses and the personal toll of the crash, as permitted under applicable law.

Economic Damages

These are the measurable financial losses you’ve suffered due to the accident. We fight to recover every dollar you’ve lost, including for things like:

• Past and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and missed work
• Reduced earning capacity if you can’t return to your job
• Property damage

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages cover the profound, personal losses you’ve experienced. Our team is here to help you get justice for these intangible harms, including:

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability or disfigurement

Punitive Damages (In Some DUI Cases)

Unlike most car accidents, drunk driving cases may allow punitive damages. These aren’t meant to repay you for bills; instead, they’re meant to punish the driver for reckless disregard for human life.

Experienced drunk driving accident lawyers play a crucial role in documenting injuries and assessing long-term impacts, including future care needs. They work closely with medical experts to document your injuries and assess the full impact on your life, including future medical expenses and long-term care needs. Through their expertise, compassion, and determination, drunk driving accident lawyers deliver peace of mind while maximizing the financial recovery you need to rebuild your life.

California Statute of Limitations

The fact that another driver was drunk at the time of a crash isn’t enough on its own to win a compensation claim. Courts evaluate the actions of all involved parties and assign blame accordingly. While drunkenness may play a major role, if the other driver claims you were driving without headlights, ran a stop sign, or failed to signal, it could reduce their liability. If the court finds you partially at fault, your compensation will decrease by your percentage of fault.

Another limitation on claims is the statute of limitations, which sets a deadline for filing lawsuits. Under California Code of Civil Procedure §335.1, personal injury claims must be filed within two years of the injury. However, extensions may be granted if the injury is tied to a criminal case, such as drunk-driving charges against the other driver. A drunk driving accident lawyer in Los Angeles can help determine the deadlines for your claim.

Our dedicated team is here to provide you with an expert case assessment today.

Why You Need a Lawyer for a Drunk Driving Accident Case

After a DUI crash, it’s easy to assume the case will be “open and shut,” especially if the driver was arrested. But insurance companies don’t automatically pay fair settlements. Their job is to protect their resources, and they often look for ways to reduce what you receive when you’re already overwhelmed.

They may try to downplay your injuries, question your medical treatment, or push a quick settlement before you understand the long-term impact of the crash. That’s why having the right legal team matters.

An experienced drunk driving accident attorney can help by:

• Handling all insurance communication so you don’t get pressured or misquoted
• Gathering key evidence like the police report, DUI arrest records, witness statements, and available video footage
• Proving the full extent of your damages (medical bills, lost income, future care, pain and suffering)
• Working with experts when needed to support injury severity and long-term prognosis
• Negotiating aggressively to prevent lowball offers and unfair blame-shifting
• Filing a lawsuit and preparing for trial if the insurance company refuses to be reasonable

You deserve the space to heal. The best drunk driving lawyer Los Angeles offers helps protect your case while you focus on getting your life back.

How Jacoby & Meyers Builds Your Case

We prepare every case like it’s headed to trial, because that’s how you protect your leverage and demand the full compensation for your overall losses. This approach often pushes insurance companies to take your injuries seriously and negotiate fairly.

1. Case Review and Strategy: We examine the crash details, police report, and insurance coverage to identify the strongest path forward.
2. Investigation and Evidence: We secure witness statements, video footage, and expert support to prove exactly what happened and who is responsible.
3. Full Damage Documentation: We work with medical professionals and financial experts to calculate not just today’s bills, but the long-term cost of your recovery.
4. Strong Demand Package: We present a detailed, evidence-backed claim designed to prevent lowball offers and blame-shifting.
5. Trial-Ready Litigation: If the insurer refuses to be fair, we are prepared to file suit and fight for you in court.

How to Choose a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles

Even when the other driver is clearly in the wrong, insurance companies may still look for ways to limit what they pay. They may question injuries, dispute treatment, or encourage early settlement before the full impact is known.

The best drunk driving accident attorney Los Angeles offers can help ensure your case is evaluated based on its specific facts and circumstances.

Here are the most important factors to look for:

Does the Lawyer Have Real Experience With DUI Accident Cases?

Drunk driving claims can involve serious injuries and high stakes. A strong attorney knows how to build a case that reflects the full physical and emotional damage a DUI crash can cause, including:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions
• Spinal injuries and chronic pain
• Broken bones and orthopedic trauma
• Emotional distress, anxiety, and PTSD
• Long-term medical care and time away from work

At Jacoby & Meyers, we’ve spent decades representing injured Californians and have recovered over $2 billion in verdicts and settlements, including serious injury claims involving permanent harm. Past results depend on the specific facts of each case and do not guarantee a similar outcome.

Is the Firm Respected and Trusted in the Legal Community?

When the case is high-value, reputation matters. Recognition from peer-reviewed legal organizations can reflect professionalism, credibility, and consistent results, qualities insurers take seriously when deciding how hard they want to fight.

Our attorneys have been recognized by respected organizations, reinforcing our commitment to strong, trusted advocacy.

Do They Understand Los Angeles–Specific Legal Challenges?

DUI crashes in Los Angeles often involve heavy traffic corridors, complex intersections, and multiple agencies responding to the scene. A qualified LA drunk driving accident attorney should understand:

• Local courts, judges, and filing procedures
• How major insurers defend serious injury claims
• How DUI evidence is preserved and used (police reports, witness statements, testing records)
• The strict deadlines that apply if a government vehicle is involved

With more than 50 years of experience serving Los Angeles and communities statewide, Jacoby & Meyers combines local insight with statewide resources.

Are They Prepared to Take Your Case to Trial If Necessary?

Insurance companies know DUI cases can be expensive, and they may still try to settle cheaply. Some firms accept quick offers that don’t reflect the true cost of future care, lost income, and long-term trauma.

At Jacoby & Meyers, we prepare every serious drunk driving accident case as if it will be decided by a jury. That trial-ready approach strengthens your leverage and helps protect your future if the insurance company refuses to be fair.

What Not to Say to Insurance Companies After an Accident

After a drunk-driving collision, insurance adjusters may call quickly and sound helpful. But their job is to limit what the company pays. A few innocent words can be used to reduce or deny your claim.

Avoid saying:

• “I’m fine” / “It’s not that bad.” Injuries often worsen after adrenaline fades.
• “It was just a slip/fall.” Even “minor” falls can cause serious damage.
• “I’m feeling better now.” Symptoms can return or get worse later.
• “I don’t need more treatment.” This can be used to argue you weren’t badly hurt.
• Anything that sounds like blame (even “I should’ve been more careful”).
• Agreeing to a recorded statement without legal advice.
• Guessing what caused the accident if you’re not 100% sure.
• Taking a quick settlement before you know your long-term needs.

Instead, keep it short, get medical care, document everything, and talk to a lawyer before signing or speaking in detail.

Client Testimonials

We are proud to support our clients and build lasting relationships based on trust and dependability during their toughest moments.

“I contacted Jacoby & Meyers after being rear-ended while at a stoplight light January 2025. I was matched with Isabella Cannata. She has been extremely helpful and has empathy regarding my injuries. She’s a great listener and always returns my emails/calls. She explained the process to me in detail and even sent me a welcome box with pertinent paperwork and some goodies (t-shirt, pens, stickers, etc).

It’s bad enough going through such an unexpected ordeal, being off work for 2 months, and not being able to be as mobile as you were. But when you have someone like Isabella who represents a popular law firm, you hope for the best, and that’s what she is, the BEST! Thank you, Jacoby & Meyers, with a special thanks to Isabella!” – Cleo B. from Google Review

Disclaimer: Testimonials are voluntary statements from former clients. They are not intended to create expectations about outcomes and should not be interpreted as a guarantee of results.

What Our Clients Have To Say

Case Results That Reflect Serious Injury Experience

While past results do not guarantee future outcomes, our case history reflects Jacoby & Meyers’ ability to handle serious injury and wrongful death claims involving life-changing harm and high-stakes litigation.

Examples of case studies and results include:

• $9.24 Million – Auto vs. Pedestrian / Spinal Cord Injury
• $2.5 Million – Auto vs. Auto
• $5.1 Million – Auto vs. Truck
• $2.6 Million – Wrongful Death vs. City

For decades, Jacoby & Meyers has fought for injured Californians and recovered more than $2 billion in verdicts and settlements across the state. These results have helped clients secure critical medical care, lost income, and long-term support after devastating accidents.

Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Near Me

Jacoby & Meyers provides statewide representation for victims of drunk driving crashes. While our main office is in Los Angeles, we serve clients throughout Los Angeles County, including Long Beach, Santa Monica, Glendale, Santa Clarita, and Pomona, as well as across California.

With 14 offices statewide, we combine the resources of a large firm with the local insight you expect when searching for a drunk driving accident attorney near me. Wherever your injury occurred, experienced legal representation is always within reach.

Offices and Service Areas Include:

• Orange County
• San Jose
• San Francisco
• San Diego
• San Bernardino
• Sacramento
• Ontario
• Oakland
• Los Angeles
• Fresno 
• Escondido
• Brea
• Bakersfield

Frequently Asked Questions

What if the drunk driver was uninsured?

If you have Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage on your own policy, you may be able to file a claim against your own insurance company. We can review your policy to identify available coverage options.

What if I were hit by a drunk driver as a pedestrian or cyclist?

You may still pursue a personal injury claim. These crashes often cause severe injuries, and the at-fault driver can be held responsible for your medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.

Can I sue the bar or restaurant that served the drunk driver?

In most California cases, businesses are not liable for serving alcohol to an adult who later causes a crash. However, exceptions may apply in limited situations. A Los Angeles drunk driving accident lawyer can review the facts.

What if the drunk driver fled the scene (hit-and-run)?

You may still have options through uninsured motorist coverage, witness evidence, traffic cameras, and police investigation. Acting fast matters because video footage can be erased.

How do you prove the driver was drunk if there’s no BAC test?

BAC helps, but it’s not the only proof. Police observations, field sobriety tests, witness statements, dashcam footage, and crash evidence can still support a DUI-related claim.

How much does it cost to hire Jacoby & Meyers?

It costs nothing up front. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning our fees are taken as a percentage of the final settlement or verdict. Attorney’s fees may depend on whether compensation is recovered. In many cases, if there is no recovery, attorney’s fees are not charged, and terms will be explained during the consultation.

For more information, visit our FAQ page. 

Directory

Emergency Rooms

• Los Angeles General Medical Center 1200 N State St, Los Angeles, CA 90033
• Harbor-UCLA Medical Center– 1000 W. Carson St., Torrance, CA 90509
• Olive View-UCLA Medical Center -14445 Olive View Dr. Sylmar, CA 91342
• Dignity Health – California Hospital Medical Center– 1401 S Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90015
• Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center – 1300 N Vermont Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90027

Urgent Care Centers

• Care Fast Urgent Care- Burbank – 353 N Pass Ave Ste D Burbank, CA 91505
• First Aid Urgent Care – 7204 Foothill Blvd Tujunga, CA 91042
• Edward R. Roybal Comprehensive Health Center – 245 S. Fetterly Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90022
• H. Claude Hudson Comprehensive Health Center – 2829 South Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90007
• Ladera Urgent Care – 5311 W Centinela Ave Los Angeles, CA 90045

Local Courthouses

• Airport Courthouse – 11701 S. La Cienega Los Angeles, CA 90045
• Central Arraignment Courthouse – 429 Bauchet St., Los Angeles, CA 90012
• Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center – 210 West Temple Street, Los Angeles, CA 90012

Disclaimer: We do not endorse these companies or profit from listing them on our website.

Pursue the Justice You Deserve

If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver, you do not have to face the legal system alone. The Los Angeles drunk driving accident attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers have the experience, resources, and determination to fight for fair compensation available in your case. We are available 24/7 to review your case.

• Free Consultation
• Contingency Fee Arrangement Available
• Open 24/7

Call us today, fill out our contact form, or use our live chat to get started.

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

Attorney Review & Office Information

Attorney Review Disclosure
This content has been reviewed by California-licensed attorneys at Jacoby & Meyers to ensure accuracy and compliance with applicable California law. Legal services are provided by attorneys licensed to practice in the State of California.

Los Angeles Office
Jacoby & Meyers
2000 Avenue of the Stars, Suite 1150S
Los Angeles, CA 90067

24/7 Hotline: (213) 296-0792

Other Cases We Take On

• Car Accidents
• Personal Injury
• Motorcycle Accidents
• Truck Accidents
• Slip and Fall Accidents
• Dog Bites
• Pedestrian Accidents
• Scooter Accidents
• Premises Liability
• Hit and Run Accidents
• Construction Accidents
• Boat Accident
• Bicycle Accidents
• Paraplegia Injury
• Brain Injuries
• Catastrophic Injuries
• Burn Injuries
• Wrongful Death
• Laceration Injury
• Orthopedic Injury
• Whiplash Injury
• Amputations
• Broken Bone Injuries
• Neck Injuries
• Quadriplegia Injury
• Spinal Cord Injury
• Back Injury
• Rideshare Accidents