A DUI accident can change your life in seconds. If you or someone you love was injured by a drunk driver in Salinas, California, you may be dealing with medical bills, lost income, and emotional stress. Mercado Kramer is committed to helping accident victims pursue the compensation they deserve.
You should not have to carry these burdens alone when another driver’s reckless choices caused your injuries. Our team offers a free consultation so you can learn about your legal rights and options before making any decisions. Contact us today at (888) 311-4050 for a free consultation with our Salinas DUI accident lawyers.
How Mercado Kramer Can Help After a DUI Accident in Salinas, CA
After a car crash caused by an intoxicated driver, you need a legal team that understands how to build a strong personal injury claim. At Mercado Kramer, our attorneys have 18 years of combined experience helping injured clients seek fair compensation from negligent drivers and insurance companies.
Our Salinas personal injury lawyers can help by:
- Investigating the accident and gathering evidence
- Interviewing witnesses and reviewing police reports
- Negotiating with insurance companies
- Calculating the full value of your damages
- Preparing your case for trial, if necessary
We proudly serve Salinas, CA, and the surrounding communities in Monterey County, as well as throughout California. If you were injured because of a drunk driver, contact our car accident attorneys today to schedule your free consultation and learn how we can help you move forward.
Every case is different, and speaking with an experienced attorney as soon as possible can help protect valuable evidence and your legal rights.
Drunk Driving Laws in California
California has strict laws against driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Under California law, it is unlawful to drive while under the influence of alcohol or with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher for most adult drivers. Commercial drivers and drivers under 21 are subject to different standards. A driver who causes injuries while driving under the influence may face additional criminal penalties.
A criminal DUI case does not automatically compensate accident victims. Even if the impaired driver is convicted, you may still need to file a personal injury claim to recover damages for your losses.
What Types of Damages Are Available to Salinas DUI Accident Victims?
Victims of DUI accidents may be entitled to recover compensation for both financial losses and the personal impact of their injuries; these are referred to as economic damages and non-economic damages. The amount available depends on the facts of each case and the seriousness of the injuries.
Common damages may include:
- Medical expenses
- Future medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Reduced earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
In some DUI accident cases, punitive damages may also be available because drunk driving may be considered especially reckless under California law. A Salinas car accident lawyer can evaluate whether these damages may apply in your case.
What Types of Injuries Usually Happen in Car Accidents?
Drunk driving crashes often happen at high speeds or involve drivers with delayed reaction times. These collisions can cause severe injuries that require months or even years of treatment.
Some of the most common injuries include:
- Whiplash and neck injuries
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Burns
- Soft tissue injuries
- Psychological trauma, including anxiety and PTSD
Even if you feel fine immediately after a crash, it is important to seek medical care. Some injuries do not show symptoms until hours or days later, and prompt treatment can protect both your health and your legal claim.
Statute of Limitations for California Personal Injury Lawsuits
California law generally gives injured accident victims two years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury lawsuit. Missing this deadline can prevent you from recovering compensation. Some cases involve exceptions that may shorten or extend the filing deadline, especially if a government entity is involved.
Because every situation is unique, it is wise to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after a DUI accident. A Salinas personal injury attorney can help preserve evidence, identify witnesses, and ensure that important deadlines are not missed.
Schedule a Free Consultation With Our Salinas Car Accident Lawyers
A DUI accident can leave you with lasting physical, emotional, and financial challenges. You should not have to face insurance companies or the legal system on your own while trying to recover from your injuries. Mercado Kramer understands the impact these accidents have on victims and their families and is prepared to fight for the compensation you deserve.
The sooner you speak with an attorney, the sooner important evidence can be preserved, and your claim can begin moving forward. If you or a loved one has been injured by a drunk driver in Salinas, California, contact us at Mercado Kramer today. Schedule your free consultation with our Salinas car accident lawyers and learn how we can help you pursue justice and financial recovery.
