Drunk driving collisions often result in severe injuries and fatalities. In such cases, drunk drivers, in addition to facing criminal charges, can be held civilly liable as well for the injuries and damages they cause. If a drunk driver has hurt you or a loved one in a Carlsbad car accident, you may be able to seek compensation for your medical bills, future treatment expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, the cost of rehabilitation, and other related damages.
There are several steps you would be well advised to take in the aftermath of a crash. It is important that you call the authorities. Remain at the crash site and begin collecting evidence, if possible. Take photos of your vehicles and write down the contact information from anyone who witnessed the collision. Make sure your version of the crash is in the report and stay abreast of whether or not the at-fault driver is tested for drugs or alcohol. He or she does not have to be convicted for drunk driving for you to receive compensation, but that could help strengthen your case.
If the person responsible for your crash is arrested and convicted of driving under the influence, it should not be challenging to prove that his or her negligence contributed to the accident. If there is no conviction for DUI, you can still receive support by proving that he or she was behaving in a careless or reckless manner. Evidence from the crash site, pictures of the damaged vehicles, and testimony from eyewitnesses can help you prove your case.
In order to protect your rights after a Carlsbad DUI crash, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help fight for your rights and hold wrongdoers accountable.