Driving under the influence (DUI) can lead to a number of serious repercussions in California, especially if a driver was involved in a DUI accident. Depending upon your situation, you may have to pay money to the other party in a DUI accident in California.
In fact, individuals involved in a DUI accident can seek compensation from you in several different ways. Explore these methods right here with the Simmrin Law Group and work to stand up for yourself by calling us at (310) 896-2723.
You May Have to Pay Restitution After a DUI Conviction
Drivers convicted of a DUI causing injury in California may be ordered to pay restitution to the injured individuals. Note that you may also be ordered to pay restitution to cover property damage caused in a drunk driving accident.
The California court system does not have a set amount of restitution used in DUI cases. Instead, the court will decide how much restitution you have to pay by considering the facts of your case. Restitution payments are dependent upon the costs of an individual’s:
- Medical expenses
- Therapy expenses
- Legal expenses
- Lost wages at work
- Property damage
You can be held responsible for all of another party’s losses after a DUI accident in California.
For a free legal consultation, call (310) 896-2723
You May Face a Civil Lawsuit After a DUI in California
Thus far, we’ve discussed restitution payments in criminal cases for a DUI in California. Individuals hurt in a drunk driving accident may also file a civil suit against you. Note that you can face a case in civil court even if you don’t face a DUI conviction in criminal court.
Individuals are awarded compensation in the civil court system. Compensation payments cover the same losses as restitution payments, including healthcare bills and expenses to handle property damage.
The Court Can Order Payment to the Victims Compensation Fund
You may be ordered to pay compensation or restitution directly to another individual after a DUI causing injury. You can also be required to provide indirect payment to injured individuals through California’s Victims Compensation Fund.
Note that the court system can also charge you general fines for a DUI conviction. These payments go to the court system, not anyone else hurt in a DUI accident. All of these fines and financial penalties can quickly become overwhelming for drivers.
Make sure you get help handling a DUI charge by contacting a criminal defense lawyer in Los Angeles now. Call (310) 896-2723 to speak with the Simmrin Law Group about constructing a defense and preventing high DUI fines and restitution payments.
Insurance Costs After a DUI Accident in California
Note that your auto insurance policy will likely come into play after a DUI accident in California. Your insurance may cover some of the damages, but this can end up greatly increasing your premiums, costing you in the long run.
You should be aware that California legally requires drivers to carry insurance before operating a vehicle. You can face additional legal charges if you drive without insurance. You will also be responsible for covering the full losses of another driver if so ordered by the court.
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Handle DUI Charges with a Legal Professional
Successfully resolving a DUI accusation in California can help you avoid high restitution payments. A DUI lawyer in Los Angeles can review your case to start building your defense today. You can also improve your odds of avoiding compensation payments if you:
- Don’t admit to driving drunk
- Don’t take responsibility for causing the accident
- Don’t apologize to the other driver
- Don’t plead “guilty” to your criminal charges
Any admission of guilt can be used against you in both the criminal and civil court systems. The professionals recommend that you do not discuss your DUI charges with anyone – including your insurance company – before speaking to a DUI lawyer.
Allow your lawyer to start working on your defense now. The team at the Simmrin Law Group can take steps to get your charges reduced or dismissed. We’re ready to help you face criminal charges for a DUI today.
Call a Lawyer for After a DUI Accident in California
You may have to pay money to the other party in a DUI accident in California. Fortunately, you can reduce the odds that you will face high compensation payments by reaching out to the Simmrin Law Group now. Our DUI lawyers in Los Angeles are standing by to help, just fill out our online contact form or call (310) 896-2723.
We’re ready to offer you a FREE initial case evaluation about your case right now.
Call or text (310) 896-2723 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form