{"id":182,"date":"2026-10-15T10:11:31","date_gmt":"2026-10-15T10:11:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/34-138-224-95.nip.io\/car-accident-compensation-california\/drunk-driver-car-accident-claim-california\/"},"modified":"2026-10-24T08:52:13","modified_gmt":"2026-10-24T08:52:13","slug":"drunk-driver-car-accident-claim-california","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/drunk-driver-car-accident-claim-california\/","title":{"rendered":"Drunk Driver Car Accident Claim California | Colvin"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div class=\"wp-block-cover alignfull is-dark chg-hero\" style=\"min-height:460px;aspect-ratio:unset;\"><span aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"wp-block-cover__background has-background-dim-70 has-background-dim wp-block-cover__gradient-background has-background-gradient\" style=\"background:linear-gradient(90deg,rgba(32,36,46,1) 0%,rgba(32,36,46,1) 55%,rgba(32,36,46,0.7) 100%)\"><\/span><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-block-cover__image-background\" alt=\"An appraiser in a work apron with a clipboard inspects a dented four-door sedan in an auto body shop.\" src=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/an-appraiser-in-a-work-apron-with-a-clipboard-inspects-a-den-photo.jpg\"\/><div class=\"wp-block-cover__inner-container has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-block-cover-is-layout-constrained\">\n<p class=\"chg-eyebrow has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Drunk Driver Car Accidents | Bakersfield &amp; Kern County<\/p><h1 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\" style=\"text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Hurt by a Drunk Driver? Talk to Colvin Accident Lawyers Today<\/h1><p class=\"has-base-color has-text-color wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:clamp(0.875rem, 0.875rem + ((1vw - 0.2rem) * 0.625), 1.25rem);text-shadow:0 1px 3px rgba(0,0,0,0.6),0 0 18px rgba(0,0,0,0.35)\">Our free, confidential first consultation comes with no obligation to continue. We focus on accident cases for injured people and families across Kern County and nearby communities.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Get My Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Get My Free Consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" style=\"font-size:0.85rem;color:#6b7280;margin-bottom:1.5rem\">By Donald Norman Colvin \u00b7 Published October 17, 2026<\/p>\n\n<article lang=\"en\">\n\n<h2>Drunk Driver Car Accident Claim California<\/h2>\n<p>A drunk driver car accident claim California victims can file is a civil case. It asks the at-fault person to pay for the harm a crash caused, such as medical bills, lost income, and pain. It runs separately from any criminal DUI case. This guide explains who may be responsible, what damages may be part of a claim, and why early steps matter. It is general information, not legal advice about your situation.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/mechanic-repairing-a-car-inside-an-auto-workshop-photo.jpg\" alt=\"Mechanic repairing a car inside an auto workshop.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>What Is a Drunk Driver Car Accident Claim California, and Who Can File?<\/h2>\n<p>A civil claim is a request for money from the person who caused your injuries. It is not a criminal case. The state brings criminal charges.<\/p>\n<p>Driving under the influence is unlawful in California. <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH&amp;sectionNum=23152.\">Vehicle Code 23152<\/a> makes it unlawful to drive under the influence of alcohol or with 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in the blood. <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH&amp;sectionNum=23153.\">Vehicle Code 23153<\/a> addresses driving under the influence that causes bodily injury to another person. Those sections describe the conduct the criminal system addresses. A civil claim asks a different question: whether the driver&#8217;s carelessness caused your harm.<\/p>\n<p>People who may file include drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and cyclists hurt in a crash. Each person&#8217;s rights depend on the facts, including how the crash happened and who was hurt.<\/p>\n<h2>Who Can Be Held Responsible After a Drunk Driver Crash?<\/h2>\n<p>The impaired driver is the first person to look at, and other parties may share responsibility depending on the facts. California law makes people responsible for injuries caused by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.courts.ca.gov\/partners\/317.htm\">a lack of ordinary care<\/a>. <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&amp;sectionNum=1714.\">Civil Code 1714<\/a> states this general rule.<\/p>\n<p>Other possible parties include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>An adult host<\/strong> who knowingly gave alcohol to a person under 21 at a home. <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&amp;sectionNum=1714.\">Civil Code 1714<\/a> generally bars claims against social hosts, with that narrow exception.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&amp;sectionNum=1431.2.\">Civil Code 1431.2<\/a> addresses actions for personal injury, property damage, or wrongful death based upon principles of <a href=\"https:\/\/static.case.law\/cal-3d\/20\/html\/0725-01.html\">comparative fault<\/a>. In those actions, a defendant&#8217;s liability for non-economic damages is several only and is limited to that defendant&#8217;s percentage of fault.<\/p>\n<p>Whether any party shares fault depends on the facts. A lawyer reviews those facts for each situation.<\/p>\n<h2>What Compensation May a Drunk Driver Crash Claim Cover?<\/h2>\n<p>Damages are the money awarded for harm a crash caused. Harm falls into two main groups.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Economic losses<\/strong> are objectively verifiable money losses. These include medical expenses, lost earnings, and costs to repair or replace property. <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&amp;sectionNum=1431.2.\">Civil Code 1431.2<\/a> defines these terms.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Non-economic losses<\/strong> are subjective harms. These include pain, suffering, emotional distress, and loss of companionship. Under the same statute, each defendant pays only its share of non-economic damages, based on its percentage of fault.<\/p>\n<p>Some California rules limit recovery in certain situations involving impaired driving, and those rules depend on the facts. Ask a lawyer how they may apply to your situation.<\/p>\n<p>Punitive damages are different. <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CIV&amp;sectionNum=3294.\">Civil Code 3294<\/a> allows them only with clear and convincing evidence of oppression, fraud, or malice. Whether that applies depends entirely on the facts.<\/p>\n<p>No dollar figure can be predicted from a web page. The value of any claim depends on injuries, medical records, evidence, and how fault is shared.<\/p>\n<h2>What Are the Steps and Deadlines in a Drunk Driver Claim?<\/h2>\n<p>Most claims move through medical care, evidence gathering, an insurance claim, negotiation, and, if needed, a lawsuit. Timing depends on the injuries and the evidence.<\/p>\n<p>Typical steps include:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>Get medical care and keep records.<\/strong> Save bills, appointment notes, and proof of missed work.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Preserve evidence.<\/strong> Police reports, photos, vehicle data, and any blood-alcohol results matter.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Notify the insurers.<\/strong> The claim goes to the at-fault driver&#8217;s insurer.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Investigate and negotiate.<\/strong> The losses are documented and the claim&#8217;s value is discussed.<\/li>\n<li><strong>File a lawsuit<\/strong> if a fair resolution is not reached.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Common mistakes include waiting to start, losing records, and posting about the crash online. Complex cases can take months or longer.<\/p>\n<p>Deadlines matter. <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=CCP&amp;sectionNum=335.1.\">Code of Civil Procedure 335.1<\/a> provides that an action for injury to an individual caused by the wrongful act or neglect of another must generally be filed within two years. A claim against a public entity, such as a city or county, can follow different timing rules, so ask about that question early.<\/p>\n<h2>How Should You Handle Insurance Calls and Recorded Statements?<\/h2>\n<p>Limit what you say to any insurer until you understand your claim, because early words can be used later. Insurers often ask for a recorded statement soon after a crash.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Keep answers to facts. Don&#8217;t guess about speed, injuries, or who was at fault.<\/li>\n<li>Don&#8217;t sign a release until you read and understand it.<\/li>\n<li>Check your own policy. <a href=\"https:\/\/leginfo.legislature.ca.gov\/faces\/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=INS&amp;sectionNum=11580.2.\">Uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage<\/a> may help when the impaired driver has little or no insurance. Terms vary by policy.<\/li>\n<li>Keep a file with photos, bills, letters, and notes about your pain and daily limits.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Ask the other driver&#8217;s insurer to confirm information in writing. Written records are easier to review later.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"cta-dose-mid wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Not sure what your next step is?<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Talk it through with our team &#8212; the first consultation is free, confidential, and carries no obligation.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Get a free consultation<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h2>Why Talk With Colvin Accident Lawyers About Your Claim?<\/h2>\n<p>Colvin Accident Lawyers is a personal injury practice based in Bakersfield, California. It represents accident victims and families in car, truck, motorcycle, bicycle, pedestrian, bus, train, dog bite, premises liability, catastrophic injury, and wrongful death cases. Donald Norman Colvin is the lawyer at the practice. Our team includes support staff who help with office tasks and scheduling.<\/p>\n<p>The first step is a free, confidential, no-obligation initial consultation. You can ask about your facts, deadlines, and options before you decide anything. Bring whatever records you have, even if they feel incomplete.<\/p>\n<p>No lawyer can ensure a particular result. Each case depends on its own facts, evidence, and injuries.<\/p>\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large has-custom-border\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/10\/a-sleek-blue-car-parked-at-a-brightly-lit-service-station-en-photo.jpg\" alt=\"A sleek blue car parked at a brightly lit service station entrance at night.\" style=\"border-radius:8px;width:100%;aspect-ratio:16\/9;object-fit:cover\"\/><\/figure>\n<h2>Common Questions About Drunk Driver Car Accident Claims<\/h2>\n<p>Short answers to common questions appear below.<\/p><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>What are the consequences of a first-time DUI with injury in California?<\/summary><p>The criminal case is separate from a civil claim, and each follows its own process.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Can you be sued personally if you have car insurance?<\/summary><p>Yes, an at-fault driver can face personal responsibility for damages. Insurance limits may not cover every loss.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>Is it bad to admit fault in a car accident?<\/summary><p>Statements about fault can be used later, so limit what you say to insurers. Talk with a lawyer before giving a recorded statement.<\/p><\/details><details class=\"wp-block-details chg-faq is-layout-flow wp-block-details-is-layout-flow\"><summary>How can I report a drunk driver in California?<\/summary><p>If an impaired driver is a danger on the road, call 911. Reporting to police is separate from a civil claim.<\/p>\n<p>If an impaired driver injured you or a family member, you may have a claim, and you don&#8217;t have to sort out the insurance calls alone. You can contact Colvin Accident Lawyers at <a href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/<\/a> for a free, confidential, no-obligation initial consultation.<\/p><\/details><\/article>\n<footer class=\"disclaimer\"><em>The information on this website is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Please consult a licensed attorney regarding your specific legal situation.<\/em><\/footer>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignwide has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">Why Injured People Call Colvin<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--phone\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Free First Consultation<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Your first consultation is free, confidential, and comes with no obligation to continue.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--shield\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Focused on Accident Cases<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Our practice centers on car, truck, motorcycle, pedestrian, and other accident claims, so your case is handled by a team that works on these matters every day.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--location\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Serving Kern County and Nearby Areas<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Based in Bakersfield, we work with clients in Kern County and communities including Fresno, Visalia, Lancaster, Palmdale, Delano, and Tehachapi.<\/p><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><span class=\"chg-icon chg-icon--users\"><\/span><\/p><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Support for Families<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When a drunk driver causes a loss of life, our team helps surviving family members understand their options during a painful time.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-color has-accent-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-32197852 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--accent,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);border-radius:8px;padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem;border-left:6px solid var(--wp--preset--color--cta,currentColor);box-shadow:0 2px 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.18)\">\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading has-base-color has-text-color\">Be Careful Before Speaking With Insurers<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An insurance adjuster may contact you soon after a crash. Before giving a recorded statement or signing anything, consider talking with a lawyer about how it could affect your claim.<\/p><div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-layout-flex wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Call Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Call Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-surface-background-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-583d630a wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center\">What to Know After a Drunk Driver Crash<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-columns alignwide is-layout-flex wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-f56f613f wp-block-columns-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Protect Your Health<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Get medical care right away, even if your injuries seem minor. Some injuries, including head and back injuries, may not show symptoms until later.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Document the Scene<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep notes, photos, police report numbers, and the names of witnesses. Records made early can help explain how the crash happened.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Keep Track of Your Losses<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Save medical bills, pay stubs, and receipts for transportation or household help. These records show how the crash has affected your life.<\/p><\/div><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-column is-layout-flow wp-block-column-is-layout-flow\"><div class=\"wp-block-group has-base-background-color has-background is-layout-flow wp-block-group-is-layout-flow\" style=\"border-radius:8px;box-shadow:0 4px 14px rgba(0,0,0,0.08);padding-top:1.5rem;padding-bottom:1.5rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\"><h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Know That Two Cases May Exist<\/h3><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A criminal case against the impaired driver and a civil injury claim are separate processes. A lawyer can explain how each may affect your situation.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-group alignfull has-base-color has-primary-background-color has-text-color has-background has-global-padding is-layout-constrained wp-container-core-group-is-layout-4d466591 wp-block-group-is-layout-constrained\" style=\"background-color:var(--wp--preset--color--primary,#20242e);color:var(--wp--preset--color--base,#ffffff);padding-top:3rem;padding-bottom:3rem;padding-left:1.5rem;padding-right:1.5rem\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading has-text-align-center has-base-color has-text-color\">Your Free Consultation Is Confidential and Comes With No Obligation<\/h2>\n<div class=\"wp-block-buttons is-content-justification-center is-layout-flex wp-container-core-buttons-is-layout-0aa01211 wp-block-buttons-is-layout-flex\"><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-call\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"tel:+16616161177\">Contact Colvin Accident Lawyers Now<\/a><\/div><div class=\"wp-block-button chg-cta chg-cta-form\"><a class=\"wp-block-button__link wp-element-button\" href=\"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/\">Contact Colvin Accident Lawyers Now<\/a><\/div><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Related practice areas<\/h2><ul class=\"wp-block-list\"><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/\">Car Accident Compensation in California: Who Pays, What You Can Recover, and Next Steps | Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/uninsured-motorist-car-accident-claim-california\/\">Uninsured Motorist Car Accident Claim in California | Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/factors-affecting-car-accident-claim-value-california\/\">What Affects the Value of a Car Accident Injury Claim in California? | Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/recorded-statement-other-drivers-insurance-car-accident\/\">Should I Give a Recorded Statement to the Other Driver&#8217;s Insurance Adjuster? | Colvin Accident Lawyers<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<!-- chg:section-siblings -->\n<nav aria-label=\"More in this section\">\n<h2>More in this section<\/h2>\n<ul><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/bakersfield-rear-end-collision-injury-lawyer\/\">Rear-End Collision Injury Lawyer in Bakersfield<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/delayed-whiplash-symptoms-car-accident-california\/\">Delayed Whiplash Symptoms After a Car Accident: When to See a Doctor<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/does-california-require-underinsured-motorist-coverage\/\">Does California require underinsured motorist coverage?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/drunk-driver-car-accident-claim-california\/\">Drunk Driver Car Accident Claim in California<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/factors-affecting-car-accident-claim-value-california\/\">What Affects the Value of a Car Accident Injury Claim in California?<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n<\/nav>\n<!-- \/chg:section-siblings -->","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Learn how a drunk driver car accident claim California works, who may be responsible, what damages may apply, and key deadlines. General information only.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"parent":49,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"chg_review":"","chg_sendback":"","chg_canonical":"","chg_lang":"","chg_hreflang":"[]","chg_jsonld":"[{\"name\": \"Drunk Driver Car Accident Claim in California\", \"@type\": [\"Service\", \"FAQPage\"], \"about\": [{\"name\": \"Drunk driving car accident\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}, {\"name\": \"Civil personal injury claim\", \"@type\": \"Thing\"}], \"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"audience\": {\"@type\": \"PeopleAudience\", \"geographicArea\": {\"name\": \"California\", \"@type\": \"State\"}}, \"provider\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Colvin Accident Lawyers\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/\"}, \"speakable\": {\"@type\": \"SpeakableSpecification\", \"cssSelector\": [\"article > p:first-of-type\", \".wp-block-details p\", \"article > h1\"]}, \"areaServed\": {\"name\": \"California\", \"@type\": \"State\"}, \"description\": \"General informational page explaining how a civil drunk driver car accident claim works in California. It covers who may be responsible for crash-related harm, what categories of damages may be part of a claim, why early steps matter, and how a civil claim differs from a criminal DUI case. The page is general information and not legal advice.\", \"serviceType\": \"Personal injury claim assistance for car accidents involving an impaired driver\", \"author\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Donald Norman Colvin\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/donald-colvin-esq-bakersfield-personal-injury-attorney\", \"jobTitle\": \"Bakersfield Personal Injury Attorney\", \"sameAs\": [\"https:\/\/bakersfield.kernhigh.org\", \"https:\/\/www.calstate.edu\", \"https:\/\/www.wsulaw.edu\", \"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/nZfBxYtQQifX3osw5\"]}, \"publisher\": {\"@type\": \"Organization\", \"@id\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/#organization\", \"name\": \"Colvin Accident Lawyers\", \"url\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/\"}, \"reviewedBy\": {\"@type\": \"Person\", \"name\": \"Regina Absher\", \"jobTitle\": \"Personal Injury Paralegal\"}, \"inLanguage\": \"en\", \"mainEntity\": [{\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"What are the consequences of a first-time DUI with injury in California?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"The criminal case is separate from a civil claim, and each follows its own process.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Can you be sued personally if you have car insurance?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Yes, an at-fault driver can face personal responsibility for damages. Insurance limits may not cover every loss.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"Is it bad to admit fault in a car accident?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"Statements about fault can be used later, so limit what you say to insurers. Talk with a lawyer before giving a recorded statement.\"}}, {\"@type\": \"Question\", \"name\": \"How can I report a drunk driver in California?\", \"acceptedAnswer\": {\"@type\": \"Answer\", \"text\": \"If an impaired driver is a danger on the road, call 911. Reporting to police is separate from a civil claim. If an impaired driver injured you or a family member, you may have a claim, and you don't have to sort out the insurance calls alone. You can contact Colvin Accident Lawyers at https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/contact\/ for a free, confidential, no-obligation initial consultation.\"}}]}, {\"@context\": \"https:\/\/schema.org\", \"@type\": \"BreadcrumbList\", \"itemListElement\": [{\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 1, \"name\": \"Home\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 2, \"name\": \"Car Accident Compensation California\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/\"}, {\"@type\": \"ListItem\", \"position\": 3, \"name\": \"Drunk Driver Car Accident Claim California | Colvin\", \"item\": \"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/car-accident-compensation-california\/drunk-driver-car-accident-claim-california\/\"}]}]","chg_meta_description":"Learn how a drunk driver car accident claim California works, who may be responsible, what damages may apply, and key deadlines. General information only.","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-182","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/182","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=182"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/182\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2040,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/182\/revisions\/2040"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/49"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/colvinaccidentlawyers.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=182"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}