A drunk driving accident can leave you injured, traumatized, and uncertain about your future. A Covina car accident lawyer can help you file a claim.
If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver, you probably want to seek justice. However, the process of filing a claim can be daunting.
The team at Omega Law Group Accident & Injury Attorneys has decades of experience working with clients like you. If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident, a Covina drunk driving accident lawyer can defend your rights and help you pursue the damages you deserve.
What Should I Do After a Drunk Driving Accident in Covina?
The aftermath of a drunk driving accident can be chaotic. Nevertheless, there are certain steps you should take to protect your rights and build a strong case:
- Report the Accident: Move to a safe location and call 911 to report the accident.
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, visit a doctor so you can document your condition.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries. If possible, collect contact information from witnesses.
- Avoid Making Statements: Do not admit fault or give statements to insurance companies without consulting a lawyer.
- Contact a Lawyer: An experienced Covina personal injury lawyer can guide you through the process of filing a claim.
What Injuries Can Result from a Drunk Driving Accident?
Drunk driving accidents often result in severe injuries. Some of the most common ones include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Injuries to internal organs
- Whiplash
- Soft tissue injuries
What is the Statute of Limitations on Car Accident Lawsuits in Covina?
In California, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit is two years from the date of the accident. If the accident resulted in a wrongful death, the timeline remains the same.
If you don’t file before the end of this period, you may lose your right to seek compensation. For this reason, it’s crucial to consult a drunk driving accident lawyer in Covina after your accident.
Who is at Fault in a Drunk Driving Accident in Covina?
While the drunk driver is generally at fault in this type of accident, liability can extend to other parties such as:
- The Other Driver: Per California’s comparative negligence law, the injured party can be assigned a percentage of the blame for the accident if their actions contributed to it. This can occur in cases where the injured driver was speeding or distracted.
- A Passenger: If a passenger knew the intoxicated driver was drunk and still allowed them to drive, they could be held partially liable.
- Bar or Restaurant Owners: Under California’s “dram shop laws,” establishments may be held liable if they served alcohol to an obviously intoxicated person or a minor.
Determining fault requires thorough investigation and evidence collection, which an experienced Covina drunk driving accident attorney can handle on your behalf.
How Long Does it Take to Sue a Drunk Driver?
Since every case is unique, there is no standard for how long it takes to sue a drunk driver. Some cases settle in months, while others take over a year.
Factors that determine the length of a drunk driving lawsuit include the complexity of the case, the severity of the victim’s injuries, and whether the case goes to trial. A drunk driving accident attorney in Covina can provide an estimate based on your situation.
Have you been involved
in an accident?
(310) 526-8383
How Can I Be Compensated Following a Drunk Driving Accident?
Victims of drunk driving accidents may be entitled to the following types of damages:
- Medical Expenses: This covers current and future medical bills.
- Lost Wages: This reimburses you for time missed at work.
- Pain and Suffering: This refers to compensation for physical and emotional distress.
- Property Damage: This covers the repair or replacement of your vehicle.
- Punitive Damages: This refers to additional compensation to punish the at-fault driver for reckless behavior. Punitive damages are rare.
Will Insurance Pay for a Car Totaled in a DUI Accident?
If your car gets totaled in a car accident, the question as to whether insurance will pay for it will depend on several factors, including who caused the accident, whether you have collision insurance, whether the other driver’s insurer will pay you, and your car’s value.
If your car has been totaled in a drunk driving accident that wasn’t your fault, the at-fault driver’s insurance should cover the cost of your vehicle’s market value. If the driver’s insurance is insufficient, your own insurance may help.
A Covina car accident attorney can help you negotiate with insurance companies and secure fair compensation.
How Can a Covina Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer Help You?
If you’ve been injured by a drunk driver, a drunk driving accident lawyer in Covina can help with the following:
- Evidence Collection: A lawyer can build a strong case that includes accident reports, witness statements, and expert testimony.
- Insurance Negotiations: A lawyer can ensure you receive a fair settlement.
- Legal Representation: A lawyer can advocate on your behalf in negotiations and, if necessary, in court.
An experienced car accident attorney can handle your case while you focus on your recovery.
Contact a Covina Drunk Driving Accident Attorney Today
A drunk driving accident can cause life-altering injuries, emotional trauma, and financial hardship. If you or a loved one has been involved in a drunk driving accident in Covina, it’s essential to take the proper steps to defend your rights.
Fortunately, you don’t have to take those steps alone. A Covina drunk driving accident lawyer from the Omega Law Group can help you file a claim and pursue a settlement.
Schedule a free consultation today to begin seeking justice.
