Modesto Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers

Helping Injured Drunk Driving Accident Victims in California’s Central Valley

Drunk driving is the act of operating or driving a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs to the degree that mental and motor skills are impaired. It is illegal in all jurisdictions within the United States, though enforcement varies widely between and within states/territories.

If you've been injured in an accident caused by a drunk driver, your well-being comes first. Seek immediate medical attention and focus on following your doctor’s recommendations. Your recovery is the most important thing, followed by your rights. With multiple offices throughout California, Rancaño & Rancaño, APLC brings more than 30 years of experience in representing victims of drunk drivers to every case. Our firm has successfully represented and fought for clients in numerous car accident cases throughout the greater Modesto area.

Give us a call at (916) 884-6554 or submit a free case evaluation form today to learn more about how our Modesto personal injury lawyers can help you.

Drunk Driving Statistics

Despite the fact that it is illegal, drunk driving remains a huge problem in the United States.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA):

• On average, 30 people die every day in the U.S. due to drunk driving accidents
• Approximately 10,000 people die every year in the U.S. due to drunk driving
• In 2018, there were 10,511 drunk driving-related fatalities in the U.S.
• In 2018, 29 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities were related to drunk driving
• 231 children aged 14 and under died in the U.S. due to drunk driving in 2018

Even when drunk driving accidents are not fatal, they often result in catastrophic injuries. Victims and their loved ones will face a lifetime of challenges and physical, emotional, and financial burdens all because of someone else’s choice to drive while intoxicated.

Drunk Driving Risks: Boats, Bicycles & Aircraft

Operating any vehicle, whether it has a motor or not, under the influence is a danger to others and is therefore prohibited in the U.S.

This includes:

• Bicycling
• Horseback riding
• Buggy driving
• Motorized farm equipment
• Boating

In the case of boating, the law extends to include kayaks, canoes, sailboats—any flotation device that needs to be steered in water. Additionally, when operating a boat, neither the driver nor the passengers may not be intoxicated.

Similar rules apply to aircraft in that none of the onboard flight crew may be intoxicated while the aircraft is in service.​

Know Your Rights as a Drunk Driving Accident Victim

If you were injured by or lost a loved one due to a drunk driver, you have the right to take legal action. In addition to any criminal charges that the drunk driver may face, you can pursue civil action in the form of a personal injury or wrongful death claim. Such claims allow you to recover compensation for your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, disability, property damage, loss of love/companionship, funeral costs, and more.

We encourage you to reach out to our experienced Modesto personal injury lawyers to learn more about your legal rights and options. Our firm is prepared to put 30+ years of experience and a reputation for excellence on your side. We serve clients throughout the Central Valley and provide legal services in English, Spanish, and Portuguese.

Contact us online or call (916) 884-6554 now for a free and confidential consultation.