Our Impaired Driving Lawyer Can Help You

Accident Due to Driver Impairment

In January 2023, it was reported that two were killed, and 1 was arrested after a DUI crash in Mission Hills. 

Driver impairment, also known as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI), is a serious problem in Los Angeles and throughout the United States. 

In Los Angeles, impaired driving is also a major cause of traffic accidents. To combat impaired driving, law enforcement agencies in Los Angeles use a variety of methods, including sobriety checkpoints and increased patrols during holidays and weekends. In addition, California has strict penalties for DUI/DWI convictions, including fines, license suspension, and jail time. 

What Is the Scenario in Los Angeles?

There are several factors that contribute to the prevalence of DUIs (driving under the influence) in Los Angeles. Some of the key factors are:

  • Large population and high traffic volume: Los Angeles is one of the most populous cities in the United States, and it has a vast network of highways and roads. The high traffic volume can lead to increased incidents of DUIs, as there are more drivers on the road and a higher likelihood of encountering impaired drivers.
  • Entertainment culture: Los Angeles is known for its vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene, which can often involve alcohol. This can lead to more people consuming alcohol and potentially driving under the influence.
  • Accessibility of alcohol: Alcohol is readily available in Los Angeles, with numerous bars, restaurants, and liquor stores throughout the city. This easy access to alcohol can make it more difficult for some people to resist drinking and driving.
  • High incidence of drug use: In addition to alcohol, drug use is also common in Los Angeles. This includes both prescription drugs and illegal drugs, which can impair drivers and increase the likelihood of accidents.

Penalties Against  Driver Impairment  Accidents in LA

In Los Angeles, penalties for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while intoxicated (DWI) are severe and can include fines, license suspension, and even jail time. The specific penalties depend on the circumstances of the case, including the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC), the presence of drugs, and whether anyone was injured or killed in the accident.

For a first DUI/DWI offense in Los Angeles, the penalties can include:

  • Up to 6 months in jail
  • Fines ranging from $390 to $1,000
  • License suspension for up to 6 months
  • Completion of a drug or alcohol education program
  • Installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) on the driver’s vehicle, which requires the driver to pass a breathalyzer test before starting the vehicle.

For subsequent DUI/DWI offenses, the penalties are more severe. For example, a second DUI/DWI offense within 10 years can result in:

  • Up to 1 year in jail
  • Fines ranging from $390 to $1,000
  • License suspension for up to 2 years
  • Completion of a longer drug or alcohol education program
  • Mandatory IID installation for up to 2 years

If someone is injured or killed in a DUI/DWI accident, the penalties are even more severe. For example, a DUI/DWI with an injury can result in:

  • Up to 3 years in jail
  • Fines ranging from $390 to $5,000
  • License suspension for up to 3 years
  • Completion of a longer drug or alcohol education program
  • Mandatory IID installation for up to 3 years
  • Restitution to the victim for any damages or injuries

Overall, penalties for driver impairment accidents in Los Angeles are severe and reflect the serious nature of the offense. 

Can You Claim Against Third Parties in Drunk Driving Accidents in LA?

In Los Angeles, victims of drunk driving accidents may be able to file claims against third parties in addition to the impaired driver. These claims are known as third-party claims and may be filed against anyone who contributed to the accident or who is otherwise responsible for the victim’s injuries or damages.

Some common third-party claims that may arise in drunk driving accidents include:

  • Dram shop liability: This refers to the legal responsibility of bars, restaurants, and other establishments that serve alcohol to customers who then drive while impaired. In California, dram shop liability is limited, but establishments may be held liable if they knowingly served alcohol to someone who was already visibly intoxicated.
  • Social host liability: This refers to the legal responsibility of individuals who host parties or events where alcohol is served. If a guest at the event drinks too much and causes an accident while driving, the host may be held liable if they provided the alcohol or failed to prevent the guest from driving while impaired.

How Can The Pacific Attorney Group Help?

The Pacific Attorney Group is a personal injury law firm that specializes in helping victims of accidents, including those involving drunk driving, in Los Angeles.

Here are some of the ways an attorney at the Pacific Attorney Group can help:

  • Provide a free consultation: The Pacific Attorney Group offers a free initial consultation to all potential clients. This allows the victim to discuss the details of their case with an experienced attorney and receive advice on their legal options.
  • Conduct a thorough investigation: We will conduct a comprehensive investigation into the accident, including reviewing police reports, interviewing witnesses, and examining physical evidence.
  • Identify liable parties: We will identify all potentially liable parties in the accident, including the impaired driver, bars or restaurants that over-served the driver, car manufacturers that produced defective parts, or government agencies that failed to maintain safe roads.
  • Negotiate with insurance companies: The Pacific Attorney Group will negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of you to ensure you receive fair compensation for the damages.
  • Pursue legal action: If a settlement cannot be reached, an attorney at the Pacific Attorney Group will file a lawsuit and take the case to court. We will represent you throughout the legal process and advocate for your best interests.
  • Maximize compensation: We will help you understand the full extent of your damages and work to maximize compensation to cover all of your losses.

Overall,  our group will provide guidance, support, and legal representation to victims of drunk driving accidents in Los Angeles. We will help the victim to understand their legal options, navigate the complex legal process, and fight for the compensation they deserve.

If you or your loved one have faced damages and injuries to an impaired driver, contact us immediately. We will navigate the way for you toward justice. 

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