DUI Suspected in Fatal Crash in Stockton Area
Officials reported that DUI is suspected after a fatal crash occurred in the Stockton area on the night of Sunday, May 30, 2021. The motor vehicle accident took place at approximately 10:30 p.m. at Pershing Avenue and Harding Way in the Civic District.
Details on the Stockton Area Fatal Crash
According to the Stockton Police Department (Stockton PD), a car accident involving two vehicles was reported in the area. One of the drivers involved in the traffic collision was transported to an area hospital for immediate treatment. Sadly, that motorist succumbed to their injuries during hospitalization.
The other driver did not suffer injuries in the accident, Stockton PD said. However, that motorist, a 29-year-old woman, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence (DUI). Additional information on the fatal car accident, including the identity of the decedent, was not immediately available.
What You Should Know About Car Accidents and Insurance Companies
A motor vehicle crash has the potential to result in life-changing or even fatal injuries for all parties involved. This is particularly in the case of a car accident caused by a drunk driver. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 10,142 parties killed in drunk driving accidents in 2019. While this statistic is alarming, it does not necessarily convey the physical pain, emotional trauma, and financial hardship caused by an intoxicated driver. If you were hurt or lost a loved one in such a collision, you may be entitled to financial compensation for resulting losses.
A personal injury or wrongful death claim against a DUI driver may be challenging even if liability is clear. To be successful in such cases, it must be shown that the at-fault party was responsible for the incident. To seek punitive damages from the intoxicated motorist to punish them for their wrongdoing, it must be shown that the driver was under the influence at the time of the incident. This is where an experienced Stockton personal injury attorney may help.
Insurance companies invest resources into disputing motor vehicle accident claims, some of which involving DUI on the part of their insured. An experienced injury lawyer may assist in leveling the playing field, help claimants take the right steps to protect their rights, and work diligently to obtain the fair compensation they rightfully deserve. For details on how to find the best attorney to handle your case, watch the video below.
Importance of Collecting Evidence for a Car Accident Case
A bodily injury or wrongful death claim depends on substantial and compelling evidence to prove them. If the case lacks the necessary evidence, it should be expected that the insurance company and defense counsel may attempt to dispute its validity or value. That is why it is essential to consult with an attorney who is experienced in handling personal injury or wrongful death cases against drunk drivers. The sooner you retain a lawyer, the sooner your attorney can start conducting an independent investigation to collect and preserve key evidence before it is destroyed or lost over time.
It is also not uncommon for insurance carriers to refuse to agree to fair settlement offers. Under these circumstances, cases may proceed to litigation and even trial if there are high damages involved and disputes from insurers. That is another reason why it is critical to work with an attorney immediately after a car accident. A lawyer will work to ensure you receive fair compensation for losses incurred. To learn more about how an attorney can help you and your family, contact our law firm to schedule a free case evaluation today.
Car Accident Lawyer in Stockton
I’m Ed Smith, a Stockton car accident lawyer. A drunk driving accident may be devastating for all parties affected. If you were hurt or lost a member of your family in a crash because of an intoxicated driver, contact our law firm today to learn how we can help at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400. Our lawyers are available anytime to review your case and provide free, friendly advice.
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