If someone was under the influence when they caused an accident, hurting you or someone you love, you may deserve compensation. In the wake of everything you have to deal with after an accident, contacting a DUI accident attorney may not be at the top of your to-do list. However, having an experienced attorney can help in a variety of ways.
Belal Hamideh has helped many who were in the exact position that you are right now. Drawing upon that experience, he can work for you to get what you are rightfully owed.
Being behind the wheel while intoxicated is a criminal act. That said, as the injured party, you have the right to file a civil lawsuit against the driver responsible. To identify the worth and viability of your case, Belal offers a free consultation to discuss the details.
What Compensation Could I Be Entitled to After a DUI Accident?
Victims of drunk-driving accidents may qualify for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages are intended to address direct financial losses following the accident. These could include medical bills, vehicle repair costs, property damage, lost earnings, and even reduced earning potential.
On the other hand, non-economic damages cover the intangible effects of the accident that are not easily quantifiable, such as pain, suffering, emotional trauma, permanent disfigurement, and a decreased quality of life.
Moreover, under certain circumstances, punitive damages could be bestowed as a punishment for the drunken driver’s heinous actions, particularly if they showed gross negligence towards the safety of others.
What Should I Do After a DUI Accident?
Staying calm and composed is the first order of business. If your physical state allows and if you can do so without putting you or others at further risk of harm, take the following steps:
Prioritize Safety: Move to a secure place and check for injuries on yourself and other involved parties.
Contact the Authorities: Dial 911 to register the incident and facilitate a comprehensive investigation, including alcohol/drug testing for the liable driver.
Seek Medical Help: Even if your injuries appear insignificant, seek immediate medical care as some injuries may develop later.
Gather Evidence: If possible, securely record images and videos of the accident location, vehicular damage, and any other relevant factors, as these records can significantly aid your case. Focus on that which may be fixed or repaired.
After all these steps, reach out to Belal for a complimentary case assessment.
How Is a Civil DUI Case Different From a Criminal One?
The standard of proof in a civil case is less stringent. You need to prove that the drunk driver’s conduct was the direct cause of your injury. Therefore, to certify liability, it’s necessary to prove that the intoxicated driver’s negligent or willful actions directly resulted in your injuries, be it due to speeding, failing to signal, neglecting to yield, or other illicit acts under the influence.
We have done this many times in the past. Indeed, Belal Hamideh and his team are committed to guiding you through this process to ensure you receive the compensation you rightly deserve.
When is it Necessary to Contact a DUI Accident Attorney?
In California, the law stipulates a two-year period commencing from the day of the drunk driving incident within which you can file a civil claim. Reaching out to Belal Hamideh at the earliest will enable us to start building a strong argument on your behalf.
As soon as you entrust us with your predicament, Belal Hamideh and our team initiate a comprehensive investigation into your case.
This entails reviewing police reports, test outcomes, statements from eyewitnesses, all the accessible camera recordings and much, much more.
All our services are extended on a contingency basis, meaning you are not liable for any charges unless we win. Moreover, if need be, we can connect you with medical professionals who operate on a similar contingency principle.
We can also find those who may bear partial responsibility. In addition to the drunken driver, other entities may also bear accountability. These may include parents of teen drivers (who permitted the teens to consume alcohol), establishments or persons who served alcohol to visibly intoxicated individuals, hosts of private gatherings, and others. They could be held responsible too.
Although most cases reach a settlement without going to court, rest assured Belal Hamideh is equipped to take your case to court if needed. We are committed to ensuring you receive just compensation for your damages.
Belal Hamideh: A DUI Accident Attorney Who Can Help
Suffering due to the reckless actions of a drunk driver is not something that anyone should ever have to go through. But, Belal Hamideh and his team are here to offer support and guidance at each step. Once you’ve signed with us, you can leave the negotiations with insurance companies to us.
Securing legal representation after a drunk driving accident is not only your right but also a significant move towards obtaining the compensation you are entitled to. We have had the privilege of helping many individuals transition from a state of personal injury to personal victory. Let us do the same for you. Take the first stride towards justice by scheduling a free case evaluation via our website or a phone call.