Posted on Monday, December 9th, 2024 at 2:14 pm    

The holiday season is a time for celebration, but it also brings an increased risk of DUI accidents. Festivities often involve alcohol consumption, which can lead to impaired driving, making the roads more dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there is a significant increase in alcohol-related crashes from Thanksgiving through New Year’s Day. Below, Tiemann Law Firm sheds light on DUI cases to help individuals navigate the complications that come along with them.

Understanding the DUI Impact on Liability

In a DUI personal injury case, the driver under the influence is typically considered at fault for the accident, making them liable. However, while criminal charges for DUI can strengthen the civil case, the burden of proof in a civil case is lower than in criminal court. This means that even if the driver is not convicted of DUI, you may still have grounds for a personal injury claim.

Proving Negligence and Damages

To successfully pursue a personal injury claim, you must prove that the DUI driver’s actions directly caused your injuries, by showing that:

  • The driver’s intoxication impaired their ability to drive safely.
  • Your injuries were a direct result of the accident caused by the DUI driver.

 Insurance Complications in DUI Cases

DUI accidents often involve complications with insurance claims. If the intoxicated driver is covered by insurance, the insurance company may initially offer a settlement. However, insurers may try to minimize the payout. It’s essential to have a personal injury lawyer by your side to negotiate a fair settlement or take the case to trial if needed.

Complications of a DUI Personal Injury Case

Criminal and Civil Cases

A DUI case involves both criminal and civil components. While the criminal case deals with the DUI driver’s actions, the civil case focuses on compensation for your injuries. These cases can proceed simultaneously, and the outcome of one may influence the other. For example, a conviction in a criminal court can strengthen your case in a civil court.

Navigating the complexities of a DUI personal injury case requires a thorough understanding of both legal and insurance processes. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a DUI accident, contact the personal injury attorneys of Tiemann Law Firm for guidance and advice. Call us today to set up a free, same-day consultation at (916) 999-9000 or toll-free: 855-999-9000.

Client Testimonials

Jereme S. Testimonial
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No one wants to have to hire a lawyer, but if you do. I prefer Tiemann Law. They helped a family member who was injured on the job, and the company did not want to compensate him even though, the injury occurred on the job on company time. Jelena was always professional in explaining the lengthy process of fighting a large corporation. 2 years later he finally is receiving the deserved compensation.

Jennifer B. Testimonial
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Tiemann Law Firm helped us with an injury case for my nephew. They were very knowledgeable and we are very happy with the service they provided. The entire staff is topnotch!

Matt H. Testimonial
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I was in a car accident a while back where I was injured and had to miss work for an extended period of time.  After nearly a year of fighting with the insurance company with no results and no progress, I met with Jelena Tiemann.  I couldn't have asked for a more responsive and supportive advocate.  We quickly reached a settlement and I finally was able to move from the stress and burden of feuding with my insurance.  I highly recommending meeting with Jelena if you're in need of a lawyer.

Elena B. Testimonial
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The Tiemann law Firm has been very good to me ever since I walked in the door. James and Emily have been very responsive and professional and make me feel comfortable when I start to freak out a bit. Accidents can be pretty stressful and I feel like they’ve gone above and beyond. I’m happy that keep me up-to-date on how my case is going. I appreciate that they make me feel like a priority and that they take my case serious. I have already recommend them to a few friends and family members. God forbid I get into another accident, but if I do, I know exactly where to come for help.

Lendzey G. Testimonial
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I was in a very bad/ major car accident I originally had an attorney who wasn’t trying to help me out much or take any of my calls so I called Tiemann and told them my situation. They made it an AWESOME and Smooth transition over to them and took on both cases I had. I just settled on my big case and am beyond great full. For them and their team! I highly recommend them. To add on to this a little On how much they will work with you, I moved to Montana in the middle of all Of this and it was not an issue!