One Hospitalized After DUI Crash in Merced Area
One party was hospitalized, and another was arrested after a recent DUI crash in the Merced area. The car accident occurred at Lopes Avenue and West Avenue near Gracey Elementary School.
Details on the Merced Area DUI Crash That Left One Injured
A 20-year-old man was located near the scene of a car wreck involving two vehicles. Authorities responding to the scene determined that the man was the driver of a vehicle that overturned upon impact.
Officials found a passenger in the other vehicle that sustained a major arm injury. She was transported to the hospital for immediate treatment. Police said the man driving the other car was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. He was arrested on suspicion of felony driving under the influence (DUI). More details on the wreck were not immediately available.
Do Insurance Companies Pay for Drunk Driving Accidents?
A motor vehicle collision can be a nightmare, especially if it was caused by an intoxicated motorist. When this happens, serious injuries may result and leave injured parties with lasting consequences for the remainder of their lifetimes. What is most unfortunate is that people hurt in drunk driving accidents are not treated fairly by insurance companies as they are focused on protecting their best interests and bottom line. If an insurer makes an initial settlement offer, this may mean that they want the claim settled quickly and may be far less than what the claimant rightfully deserves for damages incurred.
With any bodily injury claim, there may be substantial filing criteria and deadlines that must be met. Collecting traffic incident reports, medical records and billings, employment records establishing lost income, and other evidence necessary in establishing liability. Requesting and organizing such documents may require extensive time and work. Building a strong case for fair compensation and negotiating with claims adjusters and defense counsel may be a tedious process. However, working with an experienced Merced personal injury attorney may help in simplifying the process.
An injury lawyer who has years of experience handling car accident cases involving DUI drivers will know the best way to work with you and obtain the evidence necessary in proving your case. Unlike the insurance company, the attorney will know how to evaluate the claims and negotiate with the other side to ensure you are fairly compensated for your injuries and losses incurred. If all attempts at a fair settlement fail, your attorney will take your case to court to obtain the financial recovery you deserve, including punitive damages from the intoxicated motorist. For details on how to find the best lawyer to represent you, watch this video.
Compensation in a Personal Injury Case for a DUI Crash
When a person has been hurt in an accident caused by a drunk driver, it is essential to understand the types of personal injury compensation available in their case. Economic and non-economic damages may include medical bills, loss of income, property damage, and pain and suffering. In California, punitive damages may be available in car accident cases involving intoxicated motorists. These are solely intended to punish the at-fault party and send a message to the community that such conduct will not be tolerated.
When punitive damages are involved in a personal injury case, injured parties must understand California law and how to establish its elements. At our law firm, we can help you through the process. Contact us today for free, friendly case advice.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Merced
I’m Ed Smith, a Merced personal injury lawyer. A car accident caused by a drunk driver may be a stressful situation, to say the least. At our law firm, we have seen firsthand the devastating consequences of DUI crashes. Another driver’s bad decision may result in a lifetime of emotional suffering, physical pain, and financial hardship for an injured party and their family. At our law firm, it is our goal to ensure that injured people obtain the justice and the fair compensation they need to move forward with their lives. Contact us today to learn how we can help you and your family in your time of need at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400. Our legal team is available anytime to review the details of your case and provide free, friendly advice.
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Since 1982, we have sought the justice and compensation our clients need to rebuild their lives after traumatic motor vehicle accidents. See our past personal injury case results featured on our Verdicts and Settlements page.
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