TL;DR: DUI Accident Legal Guide for California Victims
- A recent fatal DUI crash in Atwater underscores the risks.
- DUI accidents in California can lead to felony charges and wrongful death lawsuits.
- Victims may be entitled to compensation for injuries, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
- Insurance companies often lowball DUI claims.
- Westside Injury Lawyers offers experienced legal help in Pasadena and Southern California.
🚨 Recent California DUI Crash Highlights the Danger
On June 1, 2025, a tragic head-on collision in Atwater, CA claimed the lives of two innocent victims. Authorities say the at-fault driver, suspected of DUI, crossed into oncoming traffic at high speed. The impact was fatal. The suspect was arrested at the scene.
Unfortunately, this isn’t an isolated incident. DUI crashes remain a major threat across California, especially in Southern California where traffic density is high and enforcement varies widely.
Source: Suspected DUI driver causes fatal head-on crash in Atwater
What Counts as a DUI Accident in California?
Under California law, a person is considered legally impaired if their blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.08% or higher. However, even with a lower BAC, drivers can still be charged if impaired. DUI accidents can also involve drugs—prescription or recreational.
When a DUI leads to a crash, the legal stakes increase dramatically:
- Felony DUI if someone is injured or killed.
- Vehicular Manslaughter charges may apply.
- Civil lawsuits can accompany criminal proceedings.
- DWI (Driving While Intoxicated) may also be cited in some jurisdictions.
Your Rights as a DUI Crash Victim
If you were hurt in a DUI-related accident, you have legal protections:
- Medical care: Seek treatment immediately and keep records.
- Police report: This is crucial for proving fault.
- Preserve evidence: Photos, witness statements, BAC test results.
You may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- In wrongful death cases, funeral costs and loss of companionship
Insurance Tactics: Don’t Let Them Undervalue Your Claim
Insurance companies often act fast to offer low settlements. But DUI accidents are serious—you don’t have to accept the first offer. Speak to a skilled DUI accident lawyer in Pasadena who understands how to maximize your recovery.
Looking for the best DUI lawyer in your area? Prioritize attorneys with a track record in drunk driving accident claims and civil litigation experience.
Why You Need a DUI Victim Lawyer in Pasadena
At Westside Injury Lawyers, we specialize in helping victims of DUI and reckless driving accidents. Based in Pasadena, we know how local courts operate and how insurers think. Whether you’re recovering from injury or mourning a loved one, we handle the legal fight so you can focus on healing.
We also represent clients needing a drunk driving lawyer or dui defense attorney for complex personal injury and wrongful death cases.
Learn more about our personal injury services here
What to Do After a DUI Crash
- Call 911 immediately.
- Get medical help—even for minor symptoms.
- Document the scene: photos, videos, witness info.
- Do not speak to the other party’s insurance before getting legal advice.
- Schedule a free consultation with a trusted Pasadena DUI injury lawyer.
External Resources
Don’t Wait. Get Legal Help Now.
If you or a loved one were victims of a DUI accident in Southern California, contact Westside Injury Lawyers today. You don’t pay unless we win.
📞 (877) 834-1311
📍 147 Waverly Drive, Suite A, Pasadena, CA 91105
📧 contact@westsideinjurylawyers.com
