The Barnes Firm

What Steps Do I Take If I Was Hit by a Drunk Driver in Los Angeles?

• August 17, 2018
• Sandy

Drunk driving is a serious problem in California, with millions of deaths and injuries resulting from impaired drivers over the past decade.

According to a Los Angeles car accident attorney, the risk of an accident may be even higher in Los Angeles, where the downtown nightlife and large population creates a huge environment for risk. If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver in the city, you can and should take immediate legal action.

Involving Doctors & The Police

Following an accident, it is imperative that you seek medical help. If you’ve sustained any injuries as the result of an accident or collision, you will need immediate care. Even whiplash can occur at speeds as minimal as 5 mph, so it’s always better to be safe and get yourself checked out before it’s too late.

If you are able to, immediately contact the police when in an accident with a driver who seems like he or she may be intoxicated. Don’t let anyone leave the scene of the accident, and if they do, make sure to take down all of their necessary information.

Injuries as a result of accidents aren’t always immediately recognizable, and can sometimes take days to become apparent. Even if you’ve already visited a doctor, you should re-visit a medical professional if new symptoms show themselves.

These visits will be essential for your health, but also for the strength of your case in a court of law. According to our Los Angeles car accident attorneys, you will need to show noted proof of injuries you sustained and treatment you were given as a result of the accident.

Police reports from the scene of the accident will also be essential in your case. A police presence at the scene helps to ensure that you will get proper and identifiable information from the other driver. It will also help to keep this dangerous driver off the road.

Drunk Driving Is A Criminal Act

Drunk driving is considered “gross negligence” in the eyes of the law, according to The Barnes Firm car accident lawyers.

If a victim can establish that they were injured by a drunk driver, the victim is entitled to “punitive” damages from the culprit. These damages are intended to punish the gross negligence of the driver, who did not take proper care when operating their vehicle.

Punitive damages are not covered by insurance and must be paid directly by the drunk driver. When you are hit by a drunk driver, you deserve to be compensated for any damages, injuries, pain, and suffering that was caused as a result of the accident.

If the other driver was already hit by a DUI conviction, you have a great case. The driver’s insurance company will likely try to reach out to you and offer a settlement. Insurance companies try to get out of court cases as quickly and cheaply as possible. You should have a professional and knowledgeable attorney on your side to help walk you through the settlement process and get you the best deal possible.

If You’ve Been Hit By A Drunk Driver

Drunk driving is a crime in the state of California. If you’ve been hit by a drunk driver anywhere in Los Angeles, you have a right to damages and punitive payments in a court of law.

Need representation or assistance? Contact Los Angeles Drunk Driving Injury Lawyers at The Barnes Firm for a free quote.