WHO IS RESPONSIBLE IN A DRUNK DRIVING ACCIDENT WHEN IT CAUSES BODILY HARM TO ANOTHER PERSON?
Posted on Monday, July 3rd, 2017 at 11:06 pm
According to Fox40 News, another driver struck a pregnant woman’s vehicle at the intersection of Cirby Way and Foothills Boulevard. The car crash caused the intersection to be shut down for several hours. Observers at the scene said that both cars were passing other drivers on the right-hand shoulder of the lane, which led to both cars striking another car making a left turn into the same intersection when that driver ran a red light.
The driver of the Toyota Corolla that ran the red light admitted to several bystanders that she had been drinking. The pregnant driver and the driver who admitted to drinking were transported to the hospital for an evaluation. The driver of the Toyota Corolla will undergo testing for driving under the influence. The health conditions of parties involved were not available.
The Devastating Consequences of Driving Under the Influence
All it takes is one drink to impair a driver’s judgment while driving. A driver who has one too many drinks while driving can cause a lifetime of consequences for himself and innocent victims. In a drunk driving accident, the impaired driver can face serious criminal penalties, including long prison sentences and high fines for causing accidents that result in injuries or fatalities. In addition, the DUI driver can face costly civil liability if sued by the victims of the car accident. Criminal penalties and civil liability are intended to act as a deterrent to prevent drivers from repeating the same acts. Sadly, this is not enough to prevent some people from getting behind the wheel of a car after having too much alcohol to drink.
Filing a DUI Accident Lawsuit
Civil lawsuits place a monetary amount on the loss incurred by victims of DUI accidents. Although money cannot undo the injuries caused by a drunk driver or replace a loved one who has been killed by a drunk driver, this is the only means of compensation the law can provide to victims. Monetary compensation for economic losses and non-economic losses such as:
- Medical expenses, including payment for ongoing medical or personal care
- Lost wages, including compensation for a loss of earning capacity if permanent disabled
- Property damage
- Emotional stress and physical pain
- Mental anguish
- Scarring, permanent disability, and disfigurement
Other damages are on a case-by-case basis. Our Sacramento DUI accident attorney discusses compensation and other matters in greater detail during your free legal consultation.
How Can You Avoid Causing a DUI Accident?
You can avoid being in a drunk driving accident by planning how you will get home safely if you decide to drink. If you are going to an event with friends, designate who is remaining sober and will be able to get all passengers in the car safely back home. In the event that you are partying alone, know your limits. Be accountable for your actions. It is okay to admit that you need help. Never get behind the wheel of a car while impaired. Call a family member, taxi, or use public transportation whenever possible. No one wants to lose someone close due to a drunk driving accident. Drink responsibly and do not drive while drunk.
Call a Sacramento DUI Accident Attorney for a Free Appointment
Contact The Tiemann Law Firm by telephone at (916) 999-9000 or by visiting our website. Our law firm serves clients in Sacramento, Folsom, Roseville, El Dorado Hills and other communities in the greater Sacramento area.
