If you or a loved one has been involved in a collision with a driver under the influence, you need to know your rights. Not only do you face physical injuries, but emotional and financial burdens as well. Halavanau Injury and Accident Law is here to help.
We have seen countless drunk driving crashes in the local area, and we fight for drunk driving accident victims. After a car accident, see a doctor as soon as you can. Then, reach out to us for help with drunk driving accident claims. A drunk driving crash can be devastating, and the intoxicated driver should be held responsible. Let our DUI accident attorney fight on your behalf.
Learn more about drunk driving accident cases below. Then, contact our drunk driving accident attorney for a free case consultation to discuss your drunk driving accident claim.
You need to have a knowledgeable lawyer after a drunk driving crash. Our Halavanau Injury and Accident Law team specializes in handling these complex cases. We understand the laws, the court system, and how to navigate the challenges you face. We want to allow you to focus on recovery.
Our lawyer dedicates himself to thoroughly investigating every aspect of your case. We gather evidence, work with experts, and build a solid case to represent your interests effectively. We believe in open communication and will keep you informed throughout the process. Trust our team to fight tirelessly for the justice and compensation you are entitled to.
Drunk driving accidents in San Francisco are a significant concern. Each year, these accidents lead to numerous injuries and fatalities, causing untold suffering for victims and their families. According to the CDC, between 2009 and 2018, more than 9,000 people were killed in drunk driving accidents in California. About 1.5% of all adults reported driving after drinking too much. Rates of drunk driving were highest among young adults, with males about 25% more likely to drive drunk than females. These statistics show that drunk driving is still a significant concern in the local area.
San Francisco enforces strict drunk driving laws to combat this serious issue. According to California Vehicle Code Section 23152(a), nobody is permitted to drive under the influence of alcohol. This law applies when a driver's blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher, as per Section 23152(b). There are severe consequences that come with breaking these laws.
In addition, for commercial drivers, the BAC limit is lower, set at 0.04% under Section 23152(d). San Francisco authorities are vigilant in enforcing these laws, conducting regular checkpoints and patrols. Understanding these laws is crucial for drivers and can help in legal proceedings if you become a victim of a drunk driving accident. California car accident laws are severe when it comes to drunk driving.
The legal consequences of drunk driving in San Francisco are severe. First-time offenders can face fines, license suspension, and even jail time. The penalties increase with subsequent offenses, reflecting the seriousness of the crime. A quick guide to keep in mind includes the following:
In cases involving accidents with injuries or fatalities, the penalties are even more stringent. Lots of factors could determine the final liabilities in your case. Drivers may face longer jail sentences, more significant fines, and extended license suspensions. The law takes these incidents very seriously. As a victim, you can pursue justice against those responsible.
Drunk driving accidents often occur due to a few common causes. Understanding these can help in prevention and legal action. Here are some of the leading causes:
By recognizing these causes, we can work towards preventing drunk driving accidents and holding responsible parties accountable.
Some of the most common injuries a drunk driving accident victim might suffer include:
A. Head and Brain Injuries: Head injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, can happen after a drunk driving crash. These injuries can lead to long-term cognitive issues, memory loss, and, in some cases, permanent disability.
B. Broken Bones: The force of a drunk driving collision often results in broken bones. Some bone fractures have a lengthy recovery period. In severe cases, surgery may be necessary, followed by physical therapy.
C. Internal Injuries: Internal injuries are a severe concern in these accidents. You might not realize you have been injured at first. Still, these injuries can lead to internal bleeding. They can even be life-threatening.
D. Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries can have devastating consequences, including paralysis. This could lead to long-term disability and a need for ongoing care.
E. Death: Unfortunately, drunk driving accidents can also lead to a wrongful death. The loss of a loved one in such a senseless manner is tragic and has a lasting impact on families and communities.
Taking the proper steps is crucial for your safety and legal rights. Here's what you should do:
Several parties can be held accountable in drunk driving accidents:
The drunk driver is typically the primary responsible party. Their decision to drive under the influence directly leads to the accident and its consequences. Legal action against the driver can result in compensation for the victim.
If the driver was operating a vehicle for work purposes, the employer might also be liable. Employers with employees who drive must make sure their employees are not drunk. They can be held responsible if they cause an accident while on the clock or while using a company car.
Bars and restaurants cannot serve visibly intoxicated patrons. They can be held responsible under California's "dram shop" laws if they fail in this duty. This liability applies when their actions contribute to a drunk driving crash.
Social hosts must be responsible. If they provide alcohol to a child, and that minor causes a drunk driving accident, the host can be held liable. This responsibility highlights the importance of preventing underage drinking.
Navigating interactions with insurance companies is a critical part of your case:
A. Strategies for Negotiating With Insurance Providers: Effective negotiation with insurance companies is vital to securing fair compensation. This involves understanding the value of your claim, being prepared with evidence, and being persistent in talks.
B. Common Tactics Used by Insurance Adjusters: Insurance adjusters often use tactics to suggest you were at fault. Being aware of these tactics can help you respond effectively. They do not want to pay you anything.
C. Maximizing Compensation for Clients: Maximizing compensation involves a detailed assessment of all damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A skilled lawyer can ensure that all aspects of your case are considered in the settlement.
In San Francisco, the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit after a drunk driving accident is typically two years from the date of the accident. If you wish to file a lawsuit against a government entity, the statute of limitations is only six months to file a claim with some limited exceptions that are not easy to overcome. This time frame is crucial. It's essential to consult a lawyer promptly to ensure your case proceeds within the legal time limits.
Economic damages cover financial losses after a drunk driving accident crash. This includes medical bills, lost wages, and property damage. These damages are quantifiable and form the basis of most compensation claims.
Non-economic damages address the more subjective effects of the accident. These include emotional damage, chronic pain, and suffering. They might not come with a receipt but they are equally important in a compensation claim.
These damages are unusual, but they could apply to your case. These are intended to punish particularly egregious behavior, such as driving under the influence, and deter similar conduct in the future.
A. Legal Expertise in Personal Injury and DUI Laws
Our lawyer specializes in personal injury and DUI laws, ensuring a deep understanding of your case's legal aspects. Our expertise allows us to build strong cases that stand up in court. We use our legal knowledge to fight for your rights and ensure justice.
B. Investigative Skills in Gathering Evidence
We excel in gathering crucial evidence to support your case. Our team conducts thorough investigations, including visiting the accident scene and interviewing witnesses. We work with experts to reconstruct the accident and provide compelling evidence. Our investigative skills are vital to proving negligence and securing the compensation you deserve.
C. Negotiation and Communication With Insurance Companies
Our lawyer is a skilled negotiator. We communicate effectively with insurers to ensure your interests are represented fairly. We know the tactics insurers use and how to counter them. We aim to secure the best possible settlement without requiring a lengthy trial.
D. Representation in Court, if Necessary
If your case goes to court, our lawyer is ready to represent you. We prepare meticulously, ensuring every detail of your case is ready for trial. Our courtroom experience gives us the confidence to present your case effectively. We fight to ensure the court hears your story and understands the impact of the car accident on your life.
E. Ensuring Clients Receive Fair Compensation
Our top priority is ensuring you receive fair compensation. We consider all aspects of your case, including emotional trauma. We fight tirelessly to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Our commitment is to your well-being and financial security.
Don't face the aftermath of a drunk driving accident alone. At Halavanau Injury and Accident Law, we are here to support and guide you through this challenging time. We can give you the peace of mind to focus on your recovery. We are committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you need.
We understand the pain and stress a drunk driving accident can cause, and we are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation.
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