Can You Go to Jail for a Car Accident in California?
Car accidents are unfortunate events in life. Unfortunately, car accidents can happen at any time to anyone. But what happens if someone is injured or killed in a car accident, and you are found to be at fault?
Can you go to jail for a car accident in California? Unfortunately, the answer is yes, in some cases.
Criminal Aspects
You may face criminal charges if you’re in a car accident in California that results in serious injury or death. The specific charges you could face will depend on the circumstances of the accident. However, some of the most common charges include the following:
Vehicular manslaughter: This charge applies when someone is killed in an accident that was caused by your reckless or negligent driving. If convicted, you could face up to 10 years in prison.
DUI/DWI: If you were driving while being under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the car accident, you could face DUI or DWI charges. Depending on how severe the accident is and your previous criminal record, you could face jail or prison time.
Hit and run: If you flee from the scene of a car accident, you could be charged with hit and run. This charge can result in up to one year in jail if no one was injured and up to four years in prison if someone was injured or killed.
Personal Injury Aspects
In addition to criminal charges, you could also face civil lawsuits if someone is injured or killed in a car accident that you caused. Personal injury lawsuits can result in significant financial damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
If you are facing a personal injury lawsuit, working with an experienced car accident attorney is critical to help navigate the legal system. Your attorney can help you understand your rights and options and can work to negotiate a settlement or represent you in court.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IF I HAVE CRIMINAL CHARGES IN ORANGE COUNTY?
The attorneys at ALL Trial Lawyers are trial attorneys with years of experience. They know the law and are not afraid to take your case to trial.In addition, they have a strong reputation among judges and prosecutors throughout Southern California, which has delivered tremendous victories for their clients.
Our ultimate goal is to provide the best results that can be achieved in your case— whether by way of outright dismissal, a favorable plea bargain deal, or an acquittal of the charges at trial. With ALL Trial Lawyers by your side, you can rest assured that the criminal team will be giving you their all.
Call (866) 811-4255 right now for your free consultation.
We have an office located near you. We have experience fighting cases in Orange County, Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County, Riverside County, and San Diego County.
If you have been accused or charged of a crime, you must speak with an experienced criminal defense attorney who can help you navigate the legal system and protect your rights.