Drunk Driving

Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer in Orange County

Drunk driving accidents can have devastating consequences, leaving victims with serious injuries, emotional trauma, and financial burdens. If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident in Orange County, you need an experienced advocate to fight for your rights and secure the compensation you deserve. At CWH Law, our dedicated drunk driving accident lawyers in Orange County are committed to holding drunk drivers accountable and helping victims recover from their losses.

Why Choose CWH Law for Your Drunk Driving Accident Case?

At CWH Law, we understand the challenges victims face after a drunk driving accident. Here’s why clients trust us to handle their cases:

• Proven Track Record: We have successfully represented countless drunk driving accident victims, securing significant compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and more.
• Compassionate Representation: We know how overwhelming this time can be and provide personalized attention to every client.
• Aggressive Advocacy: We fight tirelessly to hold drunk drivers accountable and ensure you receive maximum compensation.

The Impact of Drunk Driving Accidents in Orange County

Drunk driving accidents are preventable tragedies that continue to plague Orange County roads. These collisions often result in severe injuries due to impaired drivers’ slowed reaction times and poor judgment. Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Internal injuries
• Whiplash and soft tissue injuries

Victims often face long-term medical care, emotional distress, and financial hardships, making legal representation essential to securing justice and compensation.

What Compensation Can You Receive?

Victims of drunk driving accidents may be entitled to compensation for a variety of damages, including:

• Medical Expenses: Coverage for current and future medical bills, surgeries, rehabilitation, and medications.
• Lost Wages: Reimbursement for income lost due to missed work and reduced earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for your vehicle and other damaged property.
• Punitive Damages: In cases of gross negligence, additional damages may be awarded to punish the drunk driver.

The Legal Process for Drunk Driving Accident Claims

Navigating a drunk driving accident claim can be complex. At CWH Law, we guide you through every step of the process:

1. Investigation and Evidence Collection:
   • We gather police reports, medical records, witness statements, and any available surveillance footage to build a strong case.
2. Proving Liability:
   • Our team establishes the drunk driver’s negligence through evidence such as BAC test results and eyewitness accounts.
3. Negotiating With Insurance Companies:
   • We handle all communication with insurers to secure a fair settlement and prevent lowball offers.
4. Litigation, If Necessary:
   • If a fair settlement isn’t reached, we are prepared to take your case to court and fight for maximum compensation.

California Laws on Drunk Driving Accidents

California has strict laws against drunk driving, with severe penalties for offenders, including license suspension, fines, and jail time. Victims of drunk driving accidents have the right to pursue compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.

Under California’s comparative negligence law, you can still recover damages even if you share partial fault for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

Our Orange County drunk driving accident lawyers will ensure your rights are protected and help you navigate these legal complexities.

What to Do After a Drunk Driving Accident

If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident, follow these steps to protect your rights and strengthen your case:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Document all injuries and treatments.
2. Call the Police: File an official police report to document the drunk driver’s actions.
3. Gather Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries.
4. Exchange Information: Obtain contact and insurance details from the other driver.
5. Contact an Attorney: Speak with an experienced drunk driving accident lawyer to guide you through the legal process.

Why Time Is Critical in Drunk Driving Accident Cases

California has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, typically requiring you to file within two years of the accident. Failing to meet this deadline can result in losing your right to pursue compensation. The sooner you contact CWH Law, the better we can preserve evidence, interview witnesses, and build a strong case on your behalf.

Contact CWH Law: Orange County Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys

If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, don’t face the aftermath alone. At CWH Law, we are dedicated to helping victims secure the justice and compensation they deserve.

Call us today at 562-694-3821 or schedule a free consultation online to speak with a trusted drunk driving accident lawyer in Orange County. Let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Drunk Driving Accident Claims

What should I do if I was injured in a drunk driving accident?

If you were hit by a drunk driver, follow these steps to protect your rights and strengthen your claim:
Call 911 and report the accident to law enforcement.
Seek medical attention immediately, even if you don’t feel injured.
Gather evidence, including photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and visible injuries.
Get contact information from witnesses who saw the crash.
Obtain a copy of the police report, which may contain critical evidence of the driver’s intoxication.
Contact a drunk driving accident attorney to discuss your legal options.

Can I sue a drunk driver for my injuries?

Yes, if a drunk driver caused your injuries, you have the right to file a personal injury claim against them. You may also pursue compensation from other liable parties, such as:
Bars or restaurants that over-served the driver under dram shop laws.
Employers if the driver was intoxicated while on the job.
Vehicle owners if they negligently allowed the intoxicated driver to use their car.

A drunk driving accident attorney can help you explore all possible avenues for compensation.

What types of compensation can I recover after a drunk driving accident?

If you were injured by a drunk driver, you may be entitled to compensation for:
Medical bills (hospital visits, physical therapy, surgeries).
Lost wages (if your injuries prevent you from working).
Pain and suffering (emotional distress, PTSD, and trauma).
Property damage (vehicle repair or replacement).
Punitive damages, which are additional financial penalties intended to punish the drunk driver.

Our legal team will fight to ensure you receive maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.

How long do I have to file a drunk driving accident claim?

In Ohio, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years from the date of the accident. If you don’t file within this timeframe, you may lose your right to seek compensation.

However, sooner is always better, as evidence like police reports, witness statements, and surveillance footage can become harder to obtain over time.

Do I need a lawyer to handle my drunk driving accident case?

Yes. Drunk driving accident claims can involve complex legal issues, including dealing with insurance companies, criminal charges against the driver, and dram shop liability claims. An experienced drunk driving accident attorney can:
Gather evidence to prove the driver’s intoxication and negligence.
Negotiate with insurance companies to maximize your settlement.
File a lawsuit for full compensation if the insurance offer is too low.
Represent you in court if necessary.