Maison Law represents victims hurt in Long Beach DUI accidents. Driving under the influence puts everybody at risk, whether you’re a driver, passenger, or even a pedestrian. Despite the heavy penalties in place, DUI accidents are fairly common throughout the area. And for as damaging as they can be, you still have legal options. Contact our Long Beach car accident lawyers today for a free consultation to learn how.
Why Would You Need a Lawyer After a DUI Accident in Long Beach?
While a DUI accident is a serious car accident, you technically don’t need a lawyer to file a claim. However, the severe injuries that often result from driving under the influence make the situation much more complex for you, including the claims process.
So, while you don’t need a lawyer, having our team at Maison Law on your side can be crucial in managing your claim. We help by:
- Investigating the accident – We gather evidence to prove the other driver was intoxicated.
- Gathering records – We collect and organize your medical records to link your injuries to the accident, and also help by collecting other crucial evidence for your claim.
- Explaining your options – We clarify your legal rights and options.
- Negotiating with insurance companies – We handle negotiations to ensure you receive a fair settlement offer.
- Filing a lawsuit – If necessary, we file a lawsuit to pursue the damages you deserve.
Our goal is to simplify the process for you and provide the guidance needed to build a strong case. Even with our help, though, there’s a few things you’ll need to do.
What Can You Do If You’re in a DUI Accident in Long Beach?
If you’re injured in a DUI accident in Long Beach, even though liability is often relatively straightforward, you still need to build a strong case to recover damages. So, there’s a few steps you’ll need to take immediately after the accident:
- Call 911 – Contact 911 right away to get ambulance and police help. Ask for the Long Beach Police Department (LBPD) if you suspect the other driver is under the influence. This will make sure they address the driver’s impairment and manage the scene. Let EMTs handle your injuries.
- Document the accident – If safe, take photos or videos of the scene, including your injuries, vehicle damage, and the other driver’s vehicle.
- Gather important information – Get the other driver’s contact details, insurance information, and license plate number. If you need help, ask the police.
- Cooperate with any investigation – If the police suspect DUI, they will investigate. Answer any questions but stick to the facts and try not to admit fault. Your statements can impact your claim.
- Keep track of your losses and the evidence – Keep all medical bills and documents related to the accident as proof of your injuries and damages. Avoid repairing damaged property until it has been documented.
Obviously, taking these steps after a DUI accident is easier said than done. Still, good documentation and cooperation will form the foundation of your claim. But it’s also important to know how the process works.
Who’s Liable For Injuries in a DUI Accident in Long Beach?
DUI accidents are never good. They often cause serious injuries and emotional trauma. But the one upside to filing a claim is that it’s usually clear who should pay for your damages.
Typically, the driver that’s under the influence when they caused the accident will be mostly responsible for your injuries and may face criminal charges. This is because driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is one of the foremost examples of negligence, and negligence is the legal standard for establishing liability.
However, other parties might also share some responsibility, such as:
- Other drivers
- Pedestrians
- Local government agencies
- Car or parts manufacturers
- Property owners
- Landlords
- Bars or restaurants that served alcohol to someone already intoxicated
- Employers
Determining who is responsible is key, as it helps shape your case and identifies who will pay for your damages.
What Legal Options Do You Have After a Long Beach DUI Accident?
Legally speaking, a DUI accident is similar to any other car accident claim. This narrows down your potential options, meaning you can either:
- File an insurance claim – Usually, you start by filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance company. They will likely offer you a settlement, and if you decide to accept it, the claims process is over. Keep in mind, insurance companies aim to pay as little as possible, so the settlement may not fully cover all your injuries and losses.
- File a lawsuit – If you don’t get a fair settlement from the insurance company, you can file a personal injury lawsuit. Though this takes more time and effort, it can lead to more substantial damages as it involves a judge and jury making the final decision.
Both options make certain “damages” available to you, built around your losses. If your claim is successful, you can possibly recover:
- Medical expenses
- Ongoing care costs
- Repairs or replacement for your car and other property
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Loss of companionship or quality of life
- Wrongful death expenses
- Punitive damages
Again, the results of your claim is going to depend on the circumstances of your case and how well you present it. Also, you have to file your claim within California’s statute of limitations, which is two years from the date of the accident.
What Injuries Could You Face in a Long Beach DUI Accident?
A key part of your accident claim is going to be your losses, which more specifically are going to relate to your injuries from the accident. Not surprisingly, a DUI accident usually results in much more serious injuries due to the high speed impact and overall impairment of the other driver. Still, every DUI accident leaves you facing certain injuries, like:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) and concussions – The crash force can cause head injuries, leading to memory problems and changes in behavior.
- Broken bones – The impact can break bones, especially in the arms, legs, and face, requiring treatment and affecting daily life.
- Neck and spinal injuries – Sudden jolts can cause neck pain, herniated discs, or even spinal cord injuries, leading to chronic pain or limited movement.
- Torn ligaments – The force of the accident can tear ligaments, especially in the knees, shoulders, and ankles, needing surgery and therapy for recovery.
- Burns – If there’s a fire during the accident, burns can occur, leading to painful injuries and scarring.
Most of the time, the nature of a collision with a driver that’s under the influence increases the likelihood of these injuries. But more to the point, these accidents are such that any injuries you experience are going to be much more serious, even fatal. This makes the legal process and what you can get from it extremely important to you and your family’s recovery. And our team will be there to support and guide you through the claims process.
Reach Out to Maison Law After a DUI Accident in Long Beach
Dealing with the aftermath of a DUI accident can be extremely challenging, but the legal process is crucial for addressing your injuries and losses. Every case is unique, and our Long Beach DUI injury lawyers at Maison Law are ready to help. Contact us today for a free consultation and start your path to recovery.
