A car accident is always overwhelming, but when the other driver was under the influence, the stakes are even higher. Drunk driving crashes often lead to devastating injuries, long-term medical needs, and emotional trauma for victims and their families. If you were hit by a drunk driver, you deserve full and fair compensation and you need a skilled legal team to fight for your rights.
At Hillstone Law, our experienced California DUI accident attorneys know how to take on insurance companies and hold negligent drivers accountable. We have helped countless accident victims across Los Angeles, Riverside, San Jose, and throughout California recover the compensation they deserve.
Protecting Your Legal Rights After a Drunk Driving Accident
Insurance companies and negligent drivers often act quickly to minimize their liability. To protect your claim, remember these important rules:
1. Anything You Say Can Be Used Against You
Insurance adjusters are trained to twist your words and reduce your settlement. Even statements you make at the accident scene like “I’m okay” can later be used to argue your injuries aren’t serious. Do not give recorded statements or sign anything without speaking to your attorney first.
2. Social Media Posts Can Hurt Your Case
Insurance investigators monitor victims’ social media accounts. A simple photo of you smiling at a family event can be spun to suggest you are not truly injured. Keep all accounts private and do not post about your accident or injuries.
3. The Drunk Driver and Their Insurance Company Are Not on Your Side
While the driver may apologize and the insurance representative may seem sympathetic, their goal is to limit your payout. Their interests are the exact opposite of yours. Having an attorney ensures that all communication goes through your legal team, protecting you from manipulation.
4. Collect and Preserve Your Own Evidence
Strong evidence strengthens your case. Keep a pain journal documenting how your injuries affect your daily life from sleepless nights and missed workdays to activities you can no longer enjoy. Save all medical records, receipts, and photos of your injuries and the accident scene.
Crime Victims Have Special Rights in California
Victims of drunk driving accidents are also victims of crime. Under California’s Victims’ Bill of Rights, you have the right to:
- Be informed of the criminal case against the drunk driver
- Stay updated throughout the criminal court proceedings
- File for financial assistance through the California Victim Compensation Board if the at-fault driver is uninsured
Even though you cannot collect from both the Victim Compensation Board and the driver’s insurance, the program can be a lifeline in cases where the driver lacks adequate coverage.
What Compensation Can You Recover After a DUI Accident?
At Hillstone Law, we fight to recover every dollar you deserve. Compensation may include:
- Medical expenses (current and future)
- Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress and trauma
- Rehabilitation and long-term care
- Property damage
Why Choose Hillstone Law?
- Proven Experience handling DUI accident cases across California
- Aggressive Negotiation against powerful insurance companies
- Compassionate Guidance during one of the most difficult times of your life
- No Fees Unless We Win – you pay nothing upfront
Speak with a California DUI Accident Attorney Today
Drunk driving is reckless, dangerous, and inexcusable. If you or a loved one has been injured by an impaired driver, don’t leave your future in the hands of an insurance company that wants to pay you as little as possible.
Note: These blog posts are created solely for the use of Hillstone Law. The information is gathered from internet research, various public sources, and artificial intelligence (AI) tools such as ChatGPT. While we aim to share helpful and educational content, we do not independently verify every detail, and some information may be outdated or subject to change. If you believe that any part of a post is inaccurate or subject to copyright, please contact Hillstone Law right away so we can review it and make any necessary corrections or remove the post. You may also submit a request for correction or takedown HERE.
Disclaimer: The material provided in these blogs is for general informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Our intent is to share knowledge, raise awareness, and provide helpful resources to the public. The photos used in these posts are for illustrative purposes only and are not representative of any actual incident or individuals. If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, please contact Hillstone Law at (855) 691-1691. Our attorneys are available to answer your legal questions and help you understand your rights.