A drunk driving accident can change your life in an instant, leaving you physically, emotionally, and financially overwhelmed.
Victims of these accidents often face severe injuries, significant medical bills, and the emotional toll of dealing with an event that could have been avoided.
If a drunk driver has injured you or a loved one, you deserve justice, and an experienced Bakersfield drunk driving accident lawyer can help.
At Kuzyk Law, we understand the devastating impact that a drunk driving accident can have on victims and their families.
Our team of skilled attorneys is committed to helping you navigate the complex legal process and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries, lost wages, and other damages.
We take on the stress of dealing with insurance companies and legal matters so you can focus on healing and rebuilding your life.
Helping Victims of Drunk Driver Injury in Bakersfield, California
Working with Kuzyk Law offers victims of drunk driving accidents the support and expertise they need to achieve justice.
Our firm has been representing injured clients in Bakersfield and the surrounding areas for decades, providing a track record of success in securing compensation for accident victims.
Those responsible for driving under the influence should be held accountable for the harm they cause.
As your Bakersfield drunk driving accident lawyers, we will guide you through the legal process, help you understand your rights, and fight to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and more.
Our experienced attorneys are prepared to handle the complexities of your case while offering compassionate support every step of the way.
Understanding Drunk Driving Accidents in Bakersfield
Drunk driving is a severe problem in California and across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol-impaired driving accidents account for nearly one-third of all traffic-related deaths in the U.S. Despite strict DUI laws and awareness campaigns, thousands of people are injured or killed by drunk drivers every year.
In Bakersfield, as with the rest of California, driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher is illegal. Yet, this law is too often ignored, leading to tragic accidents.
These crashes result in a wide range of injuries, from whiplash and fractures to catastrophic injuries like traumatic brain injuries and spinal cord injuries. In the worst cases, drunk driving accidents result in wrongful death.
California’s Statute of Limitations for Car Accidents
If you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident in Bakersfield, you have a limited amount of time to file a claim. California’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident.
This means that if you don’t file your claim within this period, you may lose your right to recover compensation.
California Code CCP 340.1
It’s essential to act quickly after an accident. Evidence can fade, and witnesses’ memories can become less reliable. Consulting with a Bakersfield drunk driving accident lawyer as soon as possible ensures that your case is handled promptly and effectively.
Learn more about the statute of limitations under California Code CCP 340.1.
Drunk Driving Accident Laws in California
In California, DUI laws are strict and are designed to hold drunk drivers accountable for their reckless actions. Vehicle Code 23153 defines the criminal liability for causing injury or death while driving under the influence.
In addition to facing criminal charges, drunk drivers can also be held civilly liable for the damages they cause to others.
Defining Vehicle Code 23153
This dual liability means that victims of drunk driving accidents have the right to pursue compensation through both criminal restitution and civil lawsuits.
By working with a drunk driving accident attorney in Bakersfield, you can ensure that all legal avenues are explored to maximize your compensation. More information about California’s DUI law can be found under Vehicle Code 23153.
Drunk Driving Accident Statistics for the United States
Drunk driving remains a significant public health and safety problem in the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), here are some alarming statistics:
Every two minutes in the United States, one person is injured in a drunk driving crash.
In 2020, 29,147 people in the United States were killed in drunk driving accidents.
One out of three people in the United States will be involved in a drunk driving accident in their lifetime.
| Age Group | Percentage of Drunk Drivers in Fatal Crashes |
| 21-25 Years Old | 28% |
| 26-34 Years Old | 22% |
| 35-44 Years Old | 17% |
| 45-64 Years Old | 22% |
| 65+ Years Old | 11% |
As you can see, while drunk driving can affect drivers of all ages, younger drivers (21-34) are disproportionately represented in fatal crashes.
These statistics highlight the devastating consequences of drunk driving and the importance of raising awareness and taking action to prevent these tragedies.
Common Injuries That Result From Drunk Driver Accidents
Drunk driving accidents often result in serious injuries, some of which have lifelong consequences. Some of the most common injuries include:
Traumatic Brain Injury
Victims may suffer from permanent cognitive impairment, memory loss, or personality changes.
Whiplash
A common injury in rear-end collisions causes neck and back pain.
Soft-Tissue Injury
Damage to muscles, tendons, or ligaments that may require long-term rehabilitation.
Fractures
Broken bones can require surgery and extensive recovery time.
Wrongful Death
Damage to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis.
Spinal Cord Injury
Tragically, many drunk driving accidents result in fatalities, leaving families to cope with unimaginable loss.
How To Handle A Drunk Driving Accident In California
If you’ve been involved in a drunk driving accident, there are several steps you should take to protect your rights and maximize your potential for recovery:
- Seek Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
- Call the Police: Ensure a police report is filed, documenting the accident and the involvement of alcohol.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos, gather witness statements, and keep detailed notes of the accident and your injuries.
- Contact a Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer: The sooner you contact an attorney, the better they can help preserve evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and build your case.
Why Do Drunk Driving Accidents Happen?
Drunk driving accidents happen because alcohol impairs a driver’s ability to make sound decisions and react to road conditions. Some of the most common reasons drunk driving accidents occur include:
Reduced Judgment:
Alcohol affects decision-making, leading drivers to take risks they wouldn’t usually take.
Slower Reaction Time:
Impaired drivers have delayed reflexes, making it harder to avoid accidents.
Terrible Coordination:
Alcohol affects coordination, making steering, braking, or maintaining vehicle control difficult.
Overconfidence in Driving Abilities:
Many drunk drivers mistakenly believe they can handle a vehicle despite their impairment.
Disregard for Traffic Laws:
Drunk drivers may speed, run red lights, or ignore other traffic laws, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
Consequences and Liability in Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving accidents can have devastating consequences for victims, their families, and the community. Those responsible should be held accountable for their actions.
In California, drunk drivers can face both criminal and civil liability.
Criminal Liability:
Fines:
Drunk driving convictions can result in significant fines.
License Suspension:
The length of license suspension depends on the severity of the offense and the driver’s prior record.
Jail Time:
Repeat offenders or those involved in accidents causing serious injuries or fatalities may face jail time.
Civil Liability:
Personal Injury Lawsuits:
Victims of drunk driving accidents can file civil lawsuits to seek compensation for their injuries and losses.
Damages:
Potential damages include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and property damage.
This is why pursuing a civil lawsuit is essential for victims of drunk driving accidents.
You can seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages through a personal injury claim.
Working with an experienced drunk driving accident attorney in Bakersfield will ensure that your rights are protected and that you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Civil vs. Criminal Liability in DUI Cases
It’s important to understand the distinction between criminal and civil liability in drunk driving cases:
Criminal Charges:
The state brings criminal charges to punish the drunk driver for violating the law. The focus is on public safety and holding the driver accountable for their actions.
A conviction results in criminal penalties like fines, license suspension, and jail time.
Civil Lawsuits:
Victims file civil lawsuits to recover compensation for their damages. The focus is on providing financial relief for the victim’s medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
A successful lawsuit results in a monetary award from the drunk driver or their insurance company
Mothers Against Drunk Driving Resource & Community
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) is a non-profit organization dedicated to ending drunk driving, supporting victims, and promoting highway safety. Their Central Valley Chapter offers resources and support for victims and their families.
How Working With A Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer in Bakersfield Will Help With Recovery
Hiring a Bakersfield drunk driving accident lawyer can significantly improve your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve. Here’s how working with Kuzyk Law can benefit you:
Legal Expertise:
Our attorneys are well-versed in California DUI laws and personal injury claims.
Negotiation with Insurance Companies:
We handle negotiations with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Maximizing Compensation:
We fight to recover the maximum amount for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Reducing Stress:
Letting us handle the legal aspects of your case allows you to focus on your recovery.
Drunk Driving Accident FAQs
1. What is the legal blood alcohol content (BAC) limit in California?
The legal BAC limit in California is 0.08%. This means it is illegal to drive if your BAC is equal to or higher than 0.08%.
2. Can I be arrested for drunk driving if I refuse to take a breathalyzer test?
Yes, refusing to take a breathalyzer test can result in a DUI arrest. California’s implied consent law states that by driving on public roads, you consent to a chemical test to determine your BAC. Refusing to take the test can be considered a refusal, which carries its own penalties.
3. What are the penalties for drunk driving in California?
The penalties for drunk driving in California can be severe, including:
- Fines: Significant fines
- License suspension or revocation: The length of the suspension or revocation depends on the severity of the offense and the driver’s prior record.
- Jail time: Repeat offenders or those involved in accidents causing serious injuries or fatalities may face jail time.
4. Can I file a lawsuit if I was injured in a drunk driving accident?
Yes, you can file a civil lawsuit against the drunk driver to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and build a strong case.
5. What kind of compensation can I expect if I win a drunk driving lawsuit?
Potential damages in a drunk driving lawsuit include:
- Medical expenses: Past and future medical costs, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and medications.
- Lost wages: Compensation for income lost due to your injuries.
- Pain and suffering: Damages for the physical and emotional pain and suffering caused by the accident.
- Property damage: Compensation for any damage to your vehicle or other property.
- Punitive damages: If the defendant’s conduct was particularly egregious, punitive damages may be awarded in some cases.
Remember, if you’ve been injured in a drunk driving accident, it’s crucial to seek legal advice from a Bakersfield drunk driving accident lawyer. They can help you protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Bakersfield Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys at Kuzyk Law Today!
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, the experienced attorneys at Kuzyk Law are here to help. Contact our Bakersfield drunk driving accident lawyers today for a free consultation. We will fight for the justice and compensation you deserve. Visit our contact page or call us today to get started.
