If you have been charged with driving under the influence resulting in an injury accident in California, you probably have a number of questions. Will I face additional California DUI penalties? Who will have to pay for the injured party’s medical bills? Will I face civil penalties in addition to the criminal charges? Every case is different and it may be in your best interest to seek legal guidance regarding the specifics of your case.
In general, there are potential additional criminal charges when a drunk driving incident results in injuries. Injured victims of drunk drivers have the legal right to pursue compensation for their losses through civil litigation. This means that individuals arrested for driving drunk in California, in addition to criminal charges, may also be held financially responsible for the medical bills and other losses suffered by the alleged victim.
The good news is that most insurance policies cover the damages caused in a crash. There are some policies, however, that exclude covering damages suffered when the policyholder is under the influence of alcohol. Therefore, it is imperative that all California motorists have an understanding of the specifics of their policy. Even if you do not have to pay for the medical bills related to the accident, you will more than likely see a substantial increase in your insurance premiums. Many convicted DUI offenders must purchase high-risk drivers auto insurance, which can be very expensive.
If you have been charged with drunk driving in Los Angeles, it is imperative that you have an experienced DUI defense lawyer on your side, fighting for your rights and constantly looking out for your best interests. The Los Angeles DUI defense attorneys at Sitkoff & Hanrahan have a proven track record of successfully handling DUI cases in southern California. Call our offices today at 866-430-8383 to discuss the specifics of your case at absolutely no cost.