DUI Accidents

DUI Accidents Lawyer

In California, driving under the influence (DUI) accidents are a serious offense with severe legal consequences. A DUI accident occurs when a driver operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs causes a collision resulting in property damage, injuries, or fatalities. These accidents often lead to complex legal proceedings including criminal, civil and administrative liabilities, requiring the expertise of a skilled DUI accidents lawyer to navigate the intricacies of the law. Dod Law is here to protect your rights and freedoms. Dod Law an experienced DUI accidents lawyer can help you navigate through the process and get the best outcome from your case.

Don’t allow a DUI to derail your life. Take immediate action with the support of an experienced and reputable DUI accidents lawyer by your side. Dod Law, with offices conveniently situated in downtown San Diego, Orange County, and Vista, California, is committed to safeguarding the rights and freedoms of their clients.

A Skilled DUI Accidents Lawyer Knows the Laws

California’s DUI laws are outlined in the Vehicle Code, particularly sections 23152 and 23153, which prohibit driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs, respectively. When an accident occurs as a result of DUI, the driver may face criminal charges, civil liability, and administrative penalties.

Criminal Liabilities

DUI Charges: If a driver causes an accident while intoxicated, they may be charged with DUI, which is a criminal offense in California. The penalties for DUI convictions vary depending on factors such as prior offenses, the severity of the accident, injuries inflicted, and other aggravating circumstances.

a. Misdemeanor DUI – A first-time DUI offense typically results in misdemeanor charges, punishable by fines, license suspension, mandatory DUI education programs, and probation. However, if the accident causes injuries or fatalities, the driver may face enhanced penalties, including imprisonment.

b. Felony DUI – In cases involving severe injuries or fatalities, the driver may be charged with felony DUI. A conviction for felony DUI carries harsher penalties, including lengthy prison sentences, substantial fines, restitution to victims, and designation as a habitual traffic offender.

Vehicular Manslaughter

If a DUI accident results in the death of another person, the driver may be charged with vehicular manslaughter. Depending on the circumstances, the driver may face charges of either misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated or felony vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence. Felony vehicular manslaughter convictions can result in significant prison terms.

Hit-and-Run

In some DUI accidents, the driver may flee the scene to avoid arrest or responsibility. Leaving the scene of an accident, especially one involving injuries or fatalities, can result in hit-and-run charges, which carry additional penalties, including enhanced fines and extended license suspension.

Civil Liabilities

In addition to criminal charges, drivers involved in DUI accidents may face civil lawsuits filed by injured parties or the families of deceased victims. Civil liability may include compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and wrongful death. Civil lawsuits can result in significant financial judgments against the defendant, potentially leading to bankruptcy or other long-term financial consequences.

Administrative Penalties

In California, DUI arrests trigger administrative proceedings with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) regarding the driver’s license status. Upon arrest for DUI, the DMV initiates an administrative license suspension or revocation process separate from criminal proceedings. Drivers have the right to request a DMV hearing to contest the suspension, but they must act quickly to preserve their driving privileges.

Contact Dod Law an Experienced DUI Accidents Lawyer 

Given the serious legal ramifications of DUI accidents in California, individuals facing criminal charges or civil lawsuits should seek immediate legal representation from a qualified DUI accident lawyer. A skilled attorney can assess the circumstances of the case, identify potential defenses, and advocate for the best possible outcome. Whether negotiating plea agreements, challenging evidence, or representing clients in court, Dod Law a DUI accidents lawyer plays a crucial role in protecting your rights and freedoms while navigating you the complexities of the legal system.

Contact us at our San Diego office (619) 814-5110 | Orange County office 949-681-7020  | Vista office 760-814-6025 | or schedule an appointment by filling out our online contact form