Drunk Driving Accidents Attorney in Santa Ana & Riverside
Fighting For Drunk Driving Accident Victims in California
Every driver has the responsibility to take appropriate precautions before getting behind the wheel. When someone acts recklessly or negligently, especially by driving under the influence, they can be held accountable for their actions.
If you are seeking a drunk driving accident attorney Santa Ana and Riverside victims turn to, our team can assist you. At KAL Attorneys, we know that if you have been hurt by a drunk driver, you should not have to deal with the consequences alone. We can help you seek the compensation you deserve, and you will not owe us anything unless we recover funds on your behalf.
Contact Our Santa Ana & Riverside DUI Accident Attorneys at (714) 881-7300 for a free case evaluation.
Understanding the Dangers of Drunk Driving
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, 1,355 people were killed in alcohol-involved collisions. Making the number nearly a 55% increase from 2014. Even though the legal limit is 0.08 percent, many drivers admit to getting behind the wheel when they know they have had too much to drink.
Unfortunately, when people choose to drive under the influence of alcohol or other substances, they put not only their own lives at risk but also the lives of others. Alcohol and controlled substances lead to delayed reactions, fatigue, and impaired judgment.
If you were hit by a drunk driver in Santa Ana or Riverside, financial help may be available to cover your hospital expenses, pain and suffering, lost wages, and more.
Local Support for Drunk Driving Accident Victims in Santa Ana & Riverside
Living in Santa Ana and Riverside, we understand the unique challenges our community faces regarding drunk driving accidents. The busy streets of Santa Ana and the highways of Riverside can be especially dangerous when impaired drivers are present. Local residents know that the Santa Ana Police Department and the Riverside County Sheriff's Department work diligently to address drunk driving, but these accidents still happen.
Personalized & Compassionate Care
For those affected by these events, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Navigating the healthcare system at local hospitals such as St. Joseph Hospital in Orange or Riverside Community Hospital, and managing lost wages and emotional trauma, can have a profound impact. At KAL Attorneys, we are familiar with these local challenges and are here to support you each step of the way.
We know the ins and outs of local traffic patterns, the common accident hotspots, and the specific legal landscape of Orange County and Riverside County. This local knowledge allows our drunk driving accident attorney in Santa Ana and Riverside to provide tailored support to our clients. Whether you're dealing with medical bills, pain and suffering, or lost income, we are committed to fighting for your rights.
If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver in Santa Ana or Riverside, don't hesitate to reach out. Our team can provide the local knowledge and compassionate support you need during this time.
What To Do After a Drunk Driving Accident
Knowing what steps to take after an accident with a drunk driver can make a significant difference in your claim's outcome. The time immediately following a collision is critical for protecting your rights and laying the groundwork for compensation.
To help you know what to do after a drunk driving accident in Santa Ana, follow these important steps:
- Seek medical attention quickly: Some injuries may be hidden or delayed, so prompt care is essential.
- Contact the police: A thorough official report is vital for insurance and legal processes.
- Document evidence: Take photos and collect details that could support your claim.
- Speak to witnesses: Record their statements and contact information in case they are needed later.
- Reach out to a skilled drunk driving accident lawyer in Santa Ana and Riverside: Having experienced legal support can be crucial to your claim's success.
Acting promptly increases the likelihood that valuable evidence is preserved and puts you in a strong position to pursue compensation for injuries, lost wages, and other damages.
KAL Attorneys Fight Back!
Punitive Damages in Drunk Driving Accident Case
Under California Civil Code Section 3294, punitive damages may be available for injured parties in a drunk driving collision “where it is proven by clear and convincing evidence that the defendant has been guilty of oppression, fraud, or malice.” The plaintiff may be eligible to receive additional damages as a way to punish the defendant.
In order to prove that the drunk driving accident was a result of malice, the plaintiff must prove the following five things:
- The defendant voluntarily drank alcohol or took illegal controlled substances.
- The defendant knew they would be driving a vehicle.
- The defendant drove the motor vehicle while intoxicated.
- The defendant was aware of the potential consequences of driving while intoxicated.
- The defendant willingly chose not to avoid these potential consequences.
If the plaintiff can prove these elements, the value of their injury case may be significantly increased. The intent behind punitive damages is also to deter the responsible party from further drunk driving.
It can be difficult to prove all the elements of a drunk driving accident case on your own, which is why it's important to have determined legal counsel with you from the start of your case.
Personal Injury Representation You Can Trust
When you come to KAL Attorneys, you are working with a team of Santa Ana and Riverside DUI accident lawyers who care about you. We work to secure fair compensation, no matter how complex the injury claim may be.
Dedicated to providing quality legal help, we make ourselves available 24/7 because we know you may have questions that need answers fast. As you do not pay any upfront fees and your first consultation is free, you have nothing to lose by calling our injury law firm today.
With services available in English and Spanish, call KAL Attorneys today for a free evaluation and let our drunk driving accident lawyer in Santa Ana and Riverside support you.
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the risks of driving under the influence in California?
Driving under the influence in California poses significant risks, including delayed reaction times, fatigue, and impaired judgment, which can lead to serious accidents and fatalities. The CDC reports that thousands have been killed in alcohol-related accidents in California, highlighting the severe consequences of drunk driving. It's essential for drivers to understand these dangers and refrain from driving while intoxicated.
Can KAL Attorneys help me recover compensation after a drunk driving accident?
Yes, KAL Attorneys can assist you in fighting for the compensation you deserve after being injured by a drunk driver. They understand the challenges you face and are committed to supporting you throughout the legal process. They operate on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only charge you if they successfully recover funds on your behalf, ensuring that your interests are their top priority.