Hit by a Drunk Driver in California? What to Save Before the Insurance Fight Starts
After a suspected DUI crash, injured people should preserve police, medical, insurance, and witness records without assuming the criminal case proves the civil claim.
CA Bar #286995 · Admitted 2013
A suspected drunk-driving crash can feel legally obvious, but an injury claim still depends on evidence. Criminal charges, arrest reports, and DUI allegations may matter, yet the civil claim usually still needs proof of what happened, what injuries followed, and what losses were caused by the crash.
Do not rely on one record
Save the collision report information, SR-1 confirmation if required, photos, medical records, repair estimates, tow-yard documents, and every insurance letter. If witnesses saw unsafe driving, lane changes, speeding, red-light running, or signs of impairment, write down their contact information.
Medical timing matters
Get evaluated and follow discharge instructions. Neck pain, back pain, headaches, dizziness, shoulder pain, and anxiety symptoms may develop after the first adrenaline rush. Tell providers the symptoms started after the crash and keep follow-up records.
Be careful with insurance calls
Be truthful, but do not guess about speed, distance, injury severity, or long-term recovery. If an adjuster asks for a recorded statement or broad medical authorization, consider getting legal advice first.
Bottom line
A suspected DUI can be an important fact, but it is not a substitute for a complete injury record.
Sources
- California Civil Code section 1714
- California DMV: Report of Traffic Accident Occurring in California, SR-1
- California Highway Patrol: Traffic and crash report information
Talk to Law Office of Arta Wildeboer
If you were injured in Downey, Southeast Los Angeles, the Gateway Cities, or elsewhere in Los Angeles County, Law Office of Arta Wildeboer can help you understand what records matter before you deal with an insurer or sign paperwork.
Call Law Office of Arta Wildeboer for a free consultation.
Attorney Advertising. This article is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Laws change frequently — consult a qualified attorney about your specific situation.