Fresno Injured By Drunk Driver Lawyers

Understanding The Impact of Alcohol on Driving

Alcohol impairs proper driving in many ways, making it one of the most common threats on our roads. Alcohol affects the central nervous system, changing a person’s ability to operate a vehicle safely. Understanding how alcohol impairs driving is crucial for raising awareness and promoting responsible choices behind the wheel.

In Fresno, California, if you are 21 years old or older, it is illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.08% or higher. For those under the age of 21, the BAC limit is even stricter, making it illegal for them to drive with a BAC of 0.01% or higher.

Here are the common impairments an individual experiences with alcohol intake:

• Decreased cognitive function: Poor judgment calls, misjudging distances, ignoring traffic signals, or taking unnecessary risks
• Delayed reaction time: Slowing of the brain’s processing speed
• Decreased coordination: Impaired hand-eye coordination, making it challenging to maintain control of the steering wheel, or properly operate the brakes
• Reduced Concentration: Decreased ability to focus on the road and surrounding conditions, including daydreaming or a general lack of awareness of one’s surroundings
• Altered Vision and Perception: Impaired visual perception, blurred vision, impaired night vision, and decreased peripheral vision
• Overconfidence and Risk-Taking: Diminished inhibitions, aggressive driving behaviors, excessive speeding, tailgating, or making reckless maneuvers on the road

Common Injuries in a Drunk Driving Accident

Drunk driving accidents can unfortunately result in a range of injuries. Five of these common injuries that accident victims experience include:

Head and Brain Injuries

These injuries occur when the head experiences a sudden jolt or blow, often due to the impact of a Fresno car accident. It can vary from mild concussions to traumatic brain injury (TBI), which might lead to long-term medical care, particularly needing assistance for cognitive, physical, and emotional functions.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Drunk driving accidents can cause extensive trauma to the spinal cord, potentially resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Depending on the severity and location of the injury, the person affected may experience a loss of sensation, mobility, and organ functionality below the injury site.

Broken Bones and Fractures

The force from a drunk driving accident can cause fractures and breaks in bones, particularly on the arms, legs, ribs, pelvis, and skull. Treating these injuries often involves surgical procedures and a lengthy rehabilitation process to regain normal functionality.

Internal Injuries

The impact from a car accident can lead to internal injuries like organ damage, internal bleeding, and ruptured blood vessels. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.

Soft Tissue Injuries

Whiplash, sprains, strains, and bruises are common soft tissue injuries that can occur in drunk driving accidents. The sudden and forceful movement of the body during a collision can damage muscles, ligaments, tendons, and other soft tissues, resulting in pain, swelling, and limited mobility.

The severity of these injuries can vary significantly depending on the specific circumstances of the accident. It is a must to prioritize safety by never mixing drinking with driving. If you or someone you love got in an accident due to the carelessness of a person driving under the influence, call our drunk driving accident lawyers for a free consultation.

What Should I Do If I Am A Victim in A Drunk Driving Accident

If you or someone you care about has suffered injuries in a drunk driving accident in Fresno and you wish to pursue a Fresno personal injury claim or lawsuit against the negligent driver, these actions will help ensure the strength and validity of your claim.

Here are some ways you can preserve the integrity of your case:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

Safety and well-being should be your top priority. Seek prompt medical attention for any injuries sustained from the accident, even if they initially seem minor. Documenting your injuries is vital for establishing the link between the accident and your medical condition.

Contact Law Enforcement

Report the drunk driving accident to the police and provide them with accurate details of the incident. Their official report will serve as crucial evidence when building your case. Ensure that all relevant information, such as the driver’s name, license plate number, and insurance details, is included in the report.

Gather Evidence

Collect as much evidence as possible from the accident scene. Take photos of the cars involved, the property damage, and injuries. If there were witnesses, obtain their contact information in case they have information to support your claim. Keep records of all treatments, medical expenses, and any other relevant documents related to your injuries and damages.

Consult with an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer

Engage the services of a skilled personal injury lawyer who specializes in drunk driving accidents in Fresno. They are the experts in handling the legal complexities, gather additional evidence, and build a strong claim on your behalf. 

Let your experienced lawyer handle all communications with the insurance company to protect your rights and maximize your compensation. They will protect your rights, handle negotiations for your accident claim, and pursue the fair compensation you deserve.

Document the Impact of the Accident

Keep a detailed record of the physical, emotional, and financial impact the accident has had on your life. Document the extent of your injuries and property damage, medical bills and records, rehabilitation, and therapy sessions. Maintain a record of any missed workdays and the resulting financial losses. 

Preserve Evidence of Intoxication

If possible, gather evidence of the drunk driver’s intoxication, such as witness statements, photos of open alcohol containers in their vehicle, or their admission of guilt. This evidence can support your drunk driving accident claim and establish the driver’s negligence and liability.

Follow Medical Advice and Treatment

Cooperate with your trusted law firm, medical professionals, and follow their recommended treatments and rehabilitation plans. Adhering to their advice will show your commitment to recovering fully and strengthens your claim by showing that you took necessary steps to mitigate your damages.

Maintain Open Communication with Your Accident Injury Lawyer

Keep your accident lawyer informed of all developments, changes in your medical condition, or interactions with insurance companies. Open communication ensures that your lawyer can provide the best possible representation and adjust legal strategies as needed.