Tiemann Law Firm in Forbes Magazine

call for a free consultation

(916) 999-9000
Home > Accident Attorney > WILL INSURANCE PAY FOR A DUI ACCIDENT CLAIM IN CALIFORNIA?

Written by Jelena Tiemann and Peter B. Tiemann

Last Updated : December 22, 2021
REQUEST FREE CASE REVIEW

Posted on Wednesday, September 11th, 2019 at 10:36 pm    

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not only against the law, but it is also potentially dangerous and deadly. A drunk driver puts himself and all others on the road in danger. When a DUI accident occurs, who is responsible for paying the victims for damages and losses caused by the accident? Do I need to sue a drunk driver to get paid after an accident? Does the drunk driver’s insurance company pay me for my damages? Our Sacramento DUI accident attorneys can help you with these questions and more.

When is a Drunk Driver or His Insurance Company Responsible for Damages Caused by a DUI Accident?

If the drunk driver caused the accident, the drunk driver is responsible for any damages arising from the accident. This fact is true in any car accident. If a driver causes the crash, that driver can be held liable for damages arising from the collision. In most cases, the driver’s insurance company is responsible for paying the claim of an accident victim, even if the driver was intoxicated or drugged at the time of the crash.

However, you must prove the drunk driver caused the DUI accident before you can recover any compensation for your damages. Proving that a driver was drunk or drugged is not the same as proving the driver caused the accident. There must be sufficient evidence to prove the driver’s actions or inactions resulted in the crash.

For example, the driver turned left in front of a vehicle when the driver did not have the right of way, or the driver crossed the center line and hit a car head-on. While it is improbable, a drunk driver could be the victim of an accident without having any liability for causing the crash. He could be arrested for DUI but not charged with causing the crash.

However, in most cases, a driver who is intoxicated or drugged typically contributes to the cause of a crash in some way. Proving that a driver contributed to the cause of the DUI accident is crucial. Our Sacramento DUI accident attorneys aggressively investigate DUI accidents to gather evidence that proves how the accident occurred and who caused the crash. By building a strong case against the drunk driver with evidence, it is more likely that the insurance company will pay the injury claim without a fight.

Insurance Companies Fight DUI Accident Claims

Some insurance companies choose to fight DUI accident claims in hopes of avoiding paying the claim or reducing the amount they must pay to settle the claim. If a drunk driver hits you, it is important to seek experienced legal advice as soon as possible. Don’t assume that simply because the driver was intoxicated that the insurance company will automatically pay the claim in full. Failing to seek legal counsel could result in your injury claim being denied for lack of evidence proving fault.

Contact a Sacramento DUI Accident Attorney for Help

Call The Tiemann Law Firm at (916) 999-9000 or visit our website to schedule a free consultation with a Sacramento DUI accident attorney. Our legal team can help you by investigating the DUI accident, filing your injury claim, and negotiating with the insurance company for a fair settlement amount.

Categories: Accident Attorney, Accident Injury, Attorney At Law, California, DUI Causing Injury, Folsom, Law Firm, Lawyers

Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Client Testimonials

Jennifer T. Testimonial
Quote

I highly recommend The Tiemann Law Firm! I had never before been in a situation where I sustained injury and had to seek legal representation. I was nervous, traumatized, and had no idea what to expect. Jelena, Peter, and their staff walked me through each step of the process. They explained everything in detail. They patiently answered all my questions, responded quickly to every email, text message, phone call, etc. I felt totally prepared for each new phase of the legal process. Furthermore, they were fearless in their defense of me. In certain situations, when I felt attacked or scared my attorney protected me like I was family. Their diligence, honesty, integrity, and compassion provided a true sense of healing and closure for my family and I. The Tiemann Law Firm accomplished more for me than I ever thought possible and I am forever grateful.

S.B. Testimonial
Quote

Here's the thing... Nobody really thinks much about lawyers until they need one.  Well, we needed one!  The Tieman Law Firm came through for us in a big way. They were professional, courteous, thorough, and had excellent staff as well.  Highly recommended...

Jereme S. Testimonial
Quote

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.

Hanna Padilla Testimonial
Quote

From the very start of my case the Tiemann Law Firm was wonderful. Perter came all the way to my home to sit down and talk to me about my options. He made me and my partner feel very comfortable and promised us he would take the very best care of my case. Peter kept me informed every step of the way and was always on top of things. everything was done in a timely manor and I always felt like I was the only case he was working on because he was so fast. In the end Peter got me back way more money than I ever expected. I would recommend this law firm to everyone. I am very happy with the outcome of my case thanks to the Tiemann Law Firm! Thank you!

Matt H. Testimonial
Quote

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.