Your Case is Important

When Negligence Crosses Into Recklessness

Drunk driving cases carry a different weight than other collisions. These incidents do not happen by chance. They begin with a decision to drive while impaired, despite the known risks.

In Los Angeles, where traffic is constant and road conditions can change quickly, that decision can have immediate and severe consequences. For those affected, the aftermath involves more than physical injuries. There is a clear understanding that the situation could have been avoided, which often shapes how recovery and accountability are approached.

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car that has been in an accident

How Drunk Driving Cases Are Built

These cases focus on establishing that the driver was impaired and that this impairment directly caused the crash.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration continues to report that alcohol-impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatal accidents nationwide. Evidence may include police reports, field sobriety test results, blood alcohol concentration levels, and witness statements.

Where Legal Guidance Makes a Difference

  • Understanding the Overlap Between Criminal and Civil Cases: A criminal case may move forward separately from a personal injury claim, but the two can still affect one another in important ways. Arrest records, charging decisions, and other case developments may all help clarify how the crash occurred and how liability should be understood.
  • Using Evidence of Impairment Effectively: Evidence of intoxication can be powerful, but it still has to be used carefully. Police reports, field sobriety testing, blood alcohol concentration results, and witness statements must be connected clearly to the cause of the collision and the injuries that followed.
  • Pursuing Additional Damages Where Appropriate: Because impaired driving involves reckless behavior, some cases may support punitive damages in addition to standard compensation. Identifying when that applies can make a meaningful difference in how the case is valued and presented.
  • Building a Case That Reflects the Full Impact: These crashes often leave victims dealing with serious injuries, financial disruption, and lasting emotional effects. A strong claim must account for more than the immediate aftermath. It should reflect the broader reality of how the incident has affected daily life, recovery, and long-term stability.
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Your Case is Important

Call 24/7 and schedule a free consultation with our personal injury lawyers in San Jose.

What Sets These Cases Apart

Drunk driving claims often involve considerations that go beyond a standard negligence case.

These cases may include:

  • Stronger liability due to clear legal violations
  • Criminal charges against the at-fault driver
  • Heightened emotional and financial impact on victims
  • The potential for punitive damages

These factors can significantly influence how a claim is evaluated and pursued.

How the Process Typically Unfolds

Step One: Reviewing the Crash and Arrest Details

The process begins with a detailed review of accident reports, arrest records, and evidence of impairment.

Step Two: Gathering Supporting Documentation

Medical records, witness statements, and expert analysis are collected to establish both fault and impact.

Step Three: Developing the Claim

A claim is structured to reflect the seriousness of the incident and the full extent of damages.

Step Four: Negotiation or Litigation

Cases may resolve through settlement or proceed to litigation if necessary to achieve a fair outcome.

The Risks and Realities of Drunk Driving

Alcohol affects judgment, coordination, and reaction time, all of which are essential for safe driving.

The California Office of Traffic Safety emphasizes that impaired driving remains a major contributor to serious and fatal crashes across the state, particularly in high-density areas like Los Angeles.

Los Angeles City Hall

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Whether you have questions about your case or are ready to get started, our San Jose injury attorneys are ready to help.

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Injuries Commonly Seen in Drunk Driving Accidents

Because impaired drivers often react too slowly or not at all, the force of impact in these collisions can be significant. The result is often a higher likelihood of serious injury compared to other types of crashes.

Common injuries include:

  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Internal injuries
  • Severe lacerations or burns
  • Broken bones

These injuries frequently require extensive medical treatment, and in many cases, they lead to long-term complications that affect daily life, mobility, and overall recovery.

Why Choose Habbas & Associates?

We Treat These Cases With the Weight They Deserve

A drunk driving accident is not simply another legal matter. It reflects a clear breakdown in responsibility that places others at risk. We approach these cases with the seriousness they demand, recognizing the real impact they have on individuals and families.

Our Focus Is on Meaningful Outcomes, Not Quick Resolutions

Moving a case forward quickly is not the same as resolving it properly. We prioritize outcomes that reflect what you have experienced and what you will need moving forward, rather than focusing on speed alone.

We Bring Structure to a Situation That Feels Unstable

After a serious accident, many people are dealing with medical concerns, financial pressure, and uncertainty at the same time. Our role is to provide a clear path forward, helping you navigate the process step by step.

This Is a Firm Built Around Results and Responsibility

Habbas & Associates has spent decades building a reputation based on consistency and focus. That includes holding drivers accountable when their actions create unnecessary risk for others.

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Compensation in Drunk Driving Accident Cases

Compensation is designed to reflect both immediate losses and long-term impact. This may include:

  • Lost wages and reduced earning ability
  • Medical expenses and ongoing care
  • Rehabilitation and therapy
  • Pain and suffering
  • Potential punitive damages

The value of a case depends on how clearly these damages are documented and how they continue to affect your life.

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Speak With a Drunk Driving Accident Attorney in Los Angeles

If you were injured by a drunk driver in Los Angeles, pursuing accountability is an important step toward moving forward. A conversation with Habbas & Associates can help you understand your options and what actions make sense next.

Hear It From Our Clients

I first hired Mr. Habbas and his firm to represent me in a car accident case over 10 years ago, and since that time, I have gone back to Mr. Habbas' firm, and I have referred ma...

I first hired Mr. Habbas and his firm to represent me in a car accident case over 10 years ago, and since that time, I have gone back to Mr. Habbas' firm, and I have referred many people to him. These folks immediately respond to you, and they are friendly and trustworthy, and they do everything possible to help you get through tough times. My property damage was handled quickly, and I was very happy with the settlement that I obtained for my injuries.

Daniel L. San Jose, CA 5 out of 5 stars

I was severely hurt in a car accident involving a tractor-trailer that rear-ended my vehicle. Hiring the Habbas & Associates and working with Mr. Habbas and his colleagues was t...

I was severely hurt in a car accident involving a tractor-trailer that rear-ended my vehicle. Hiring the Habbas & Associates and working with Mr. Habbas and his colleagues was the best decision I ever made. I had two prior lawyers that I was extremely unsatisfied with. I couldn't get a return call, and I didn't know what was going on with my case most of the time. I was very distressed because my bills were piling up and I didn't know what I was going to do. Hiring Mr. Habbas changed everything. His staff and colleagues were responsive, courteous, and helpful in every respect. I obtained access to the medical care I needed, and I was operated on by one of the best back surgeons in the area, although I didn't have medical insurance. The insurance company offered $350,000.00 to settle, and the case went to trial. We received a jury award of $2,554,000.00 plus interest and costs. The insurance company appealed only to cave and pay a total of $3,000,000.00. I am grateful to Mr. Habbas and his colleagues for everything they have done for me.

Gordon T. San Jose, CA 5 out of 5 stars

I suffered serious injuries because a janitor left streaks of water on a tile floor in the hallway of a building, which caused me to slip and fall while exiting from one of my p...

I suffered serious injuries because a janitor left streaks of water on a tile floor in the hallway of a building, which caused me to slip and fall while exiting from one of my patients' hospital rooms. The insurance company denied the claim, forcing my attorneys, Habbas & Associates, to file a lawsuit. The Habbas firm was very aggressive and thorough. 

They investigated the accident, and they questioned all important witnesses and gathered all of the evidence required to prove negligence. Although my claim was initially denied, a substantial settlement was obtained by the Habbas firm. Prior to this incident, I had never had a personal injury claim, and I never expected to have to hire an attorney to represent me for something like this. 

Mr. Habbas and his staff are efficient, helpful, responsive, and caring. They make you feel at ease. They explain the process, and they keep you up to date. There is no one else I would prefer to have in my corner to protect me.

Dr. S.E. San Jose, CA 5 out of 5 stars

I was seriously hurt in a car accident that was caused by another motorist, and my airbag didn't deploy. I hired Habbas & Associates to represent me because I wasn't getting any...

I was seriously hurt in a car accident that was caused by another motorist, and my airbag didn't deploy. I hired Habbas & Associates to represent me because I wasn't getting anywhere with the insurance company, and I didn't know how to make a claim against the manufacturer of the vehicle or airbags. Mr. Habbas and his staff were amazing. They fully explained all my rights and what they would do, step by step. I felt relieved in having what I felt was a great team of experienced lawyers and staff on my side.

I suffered severe nerve injuries in my face, and with the help of Mr. Habbas, I was able to acquire treatment from some of the best medical doctors in the State. My case was settled at mediation for approximately $950,000.00 within a short time after a lawsuit was filed. I can't say enough about how much Mr. Habbas and his firm care about their clients. I will always refer anyone I know to them.

Roberta S. San Jose, CA 5 out of 5 stars

Omar Habbas will fight for you and give you the best results out of your case, I know. They take good care of their clients. I’ve never been happier. Thank you to the enti...

Omar Habbas will fight for you and give you the best results out of your case, I know. They take good care of their clients. I’ve never been happier. Thank you to the entire team at Habbas & Associates. You are highly recommended.

Nina Wright 5 out of 5 stars

My wife and I got rear-ended by a DUI male driver in his mid-twenties. We suffered neck injuries and were rushed to the Emergency Dept in Natividad Hospital in Salinas, CA. One ...

My wife and I got rear-ended by a DUI male driver in his mid-twenties. We suffered neck injuries and were rushed to the Emergency Dept in Natividad Hospital in Salinas, CA. One of my children searched for an Injury Lawyer who has a great reputation in this kind of case, and she chose HABBAS & ASSOCIATES in San Jose, CA. 

We met with Mr. Hoang Le, and he explained the process. Mr. Le and the rest of the staff of Habbas & Associates were caring and showed concern for our welfare. It took a while for us to recover from those injuries, but with Mr. Le's assistance and with constant follow-ups with the insurance companies, we felt secure and less stressed. He answered all of our questions every time we had one, and that's why we are so happy and blessed to have Habbas and Associates on our side. I strongly recommend them.

Feliciano & Maria Verzosa Hollister , CA 5 out of 5 stars

Prior to working with Habbas & Associates, I had never worked with an attorney before, and I had never been in a car accident before. A friend of mine suggested I contact th...

Prior to working with Habbas & Associates, I had never worked with an attorney before, and I had never been in a car accident before. A friend of mine suggested I contact them, so, of course, I am going to take a friend’s suggestions, especially since he had great things to say. I was extremely anxious and hesitant to contact an attorney, especially since I have never dealt with such a well-advertised firm as Habbas. 

Laura Ajlouny worked with me through the whole process. From the first phone call, she completely reassured me of my decision and was extremely helpful, patient, and understanding with my claim. She was especially understanding of my anxiousness in dealing with an attorney for the first time. I am so happy to have had her as my attorney. 

The experience I had with Laura was exceptional, and I will 100% refer her and Habbas to anyone seeking an attorney for an accident. She made the experience a great one.

Juan A. 5 out of 5 stars

I had retained the services of Habbas, Nasseri & Associates when my mother-in-law was hit by a car while she was on an evening walk in our neighborhood. She had to undergo s...

I had retained the services of Habbas, Nasseri & Associates when my mother-in-law was hit by a car while she was on an evening walk in our neighborhood. She had to undergo surgery and was wheelchair-bound for some time. The case manager Hoang Le stopped by our home multiple times while my mother-in-law's mobility was restricted and was extremely helpful, responsive, knowledgeable, and easy to work with. He managed everything from getting reports from the Sheriff's office to managing the case paperwork and follow-up with the hospital and ambulance services. 

Mr. Habbas himself called over the phone and explained all the legal options, after which, in due course of time, the case was settled. We are extremely happy with the seamless experience that they provided. All in all, you'd wish you never had to run into any injury situations, but if you do, then Habbas law firm is the place to go.

Neil T. 5 out of 5 stars

Omar Habbas and his team were very professional, efficient, and extremely effective. They fought hard to get the best results on my difficult case and always kept me up to date ...

Omar Habbas and his team were very professional, efficient, and extremely effective. They fought hard to get the best results on my difficult case and always kept me up to date with every step in the entire process. I’m so glad I found this law firm and extremely happy with the results. Very highly recommend them to family and friends. If you or a loved one needs help, don’t hesitate to call them!

AJ B. 5 out of 5 stars

I’m highly impressed by their strong commitment to serving their clients and giving back to the community.

Victoria M. 5 out of 5 stars

In a little over a month, Habbas & Associates secured the best possible settlement 
I could ever get.

Brian T. 5 out of 5 stars

They helped me move forward with my case and get my sense of peace back.

Tiffany H. 5 out of 5 stars

I’m definitely going to recommend Habbas to all of my friends and family.

Young J. 5 out of 5 stars

Trusting my injury case with Habbas & Associates was the best decision ever! They made everything super easy and stress free.

Nate 5 out of 5 stars

I was in a car accident recently, and was referred to Habbas and Associates by my boss. I called and I spoke with Jessica who made everything so easy from the beginning. She kep...

I was in a car accident recently, and was referred to Habbas and Associates by my boss. I called and I spoke with Jessica who made everything so easy from the beginning. She kept me informed throughout the entire process with phone calls and emails. I really appreciate that she gave me the option to pick up my settlement check at either one of their offices or have it mailed to me. If you’re looking for a personal injury attorney, you should call Habbas & Assoc. i’m definitely going to recommend Habbas to all of my friends and family!

Lisa P. 5 out of 5 stars

We weren’t planning to get a lawyer, but on top of my daughter’s injury, the situation was overwhelming. Laura Ajlouny at Habbas was sympathetic, experienced and sha...

We weren’t planning to get a lawyer, but on top of my daughter’s injury, the situation was overwhelming. Laura Ajlouny at Habbas was sympathetic, experienced and sharp! She took care of handling both insurance companies, the police department, and getting all the info needed from the hospital. We ended up getting more compensation for my daughter’s distress than we would have on our own. And we only had to pay for legal fees out of the compensation we received. It was a no brainer. I wholeheartedly recommend Laura and her team.

Sasha S. 5 out of 5 stars

Great law firm they took my personal injury case on when other law firms would not and obtained a very good settlement. Very responsive throughout the process and addressed all ...

Great law firm they took my personal injury case on when other law firms would not and obtained a very good settlement. Very responsive throughout the process and addressed all my concerns in a timely fashion. I give them my highest recommendation.

Hasan A. 5 out of 5 stars

I hired Ms. Ajlouny to represent me as a pedestrian who was struck by a motor vehicle in October 2025. One of the reasons I hired her was because she had over 30 years of experi...

I hired Ms. Ajlouny to represent me as a pedestrian who was struck by a motor vehicle in October 2025. One of the reasons I hired her was because she had over 30 years of experience as a PI attorney. I have done over 30 years of paralegal work and I have learned that some of the best attorneys are those with the most experience. In a little over a month, Ms. Ajlouny secured the best possible settlement I could ever get. Statistics show that having a good PI attorney usually results in settlements that are 3 - 4 X greater than in pro per cases. I'd like to add that Ms. Ajlouny always kept me posted about my case and was very professional as well. Thank you and I hope my review helps.

5 out of 5 stars

Habbas & Associates were great as they helped me through an accident and injury case! We were dealing with Tesla insurance who were very slow but the Habbas attorneys stayed...

Habbas & Associates were great as they helped me through an accident and injury case! We were dealing with Tesla insurance who were very slow but the Habbas attorneys stayed vigilant and I eventually got paid out. Thanks to them and I would definitely recommend using them for your accident/injury claims!!

Abdullah A. 5 out of 5 stars

If you've got into an accident and want a lawyer that actually cares for your well-being then you need to go to Habbas & Associates! I've had an absolutely wonderful experience ...

If you've got into an accident and want a lawyer that actually cares for your well-being then you need to go to Habbas & Associates! I've had an absolutely wonderful experience with them and they were on the ball immediately with scheduling doctors appointment and gathering evidence of the accident. They maintained concerned about my health the whole time and always asked how I was doing during this process. They got me the absolute highest amount they could in my case and didn't let the at faults party defense lawyers talk them into taking substantially less amount. Thank you Habbas and Associates for all your hard work and care!

Ian G. 5 out of 5 stars

Laura Ajlouny and the Habbas & Associates team were supportive, attentive, and truly had my best interests at heart. They guided me through the process with care and profess...

Laura Ajlouny and the Habbas & Associates team were supportive, attentive, and truly had my best interests at heart. They guided me through the process with care and professionalism—and delivered results. Highly recommend!

Anonymous 5 out of 5 stars

If you got into an accident and want a lawyer that actually cares for your well-being then you need to go to Habbas & Associates. 

Ian G. 5 out of 5 stars

We ended up getting more compensation for my daughter’s distress than we would have on our own.

Sasha S. 5 out of 5 stars

Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys Los Angeles, CA Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I file a claim even if the driver faces criminal charges?

Yes. A personal injury claim is separate from any criminal case and focuses specifically on compensation for your injuries and losses.

How is impairment proven in a case?

Evidence may include blood alcohol testing, police documentation, and witness statements that establish the driver’s condition at the time of the crash.

What if the driver denies being intoxicated?

It is common for drivers to dispute impairment. A thorough investigation can uncover evidence that clarifies what actually occurred.

What are punitive damages?

Punitive damages may be awarded in cases involving reckless conduct, such as drunk driving, to hold the at-fault party accountable beyond standard compensation.

How long do I have to file a claim?

In most cases, California law provides a two-year window from the date of the accident.

While you focus on healing, we take care of the rest.

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Give Habbas & Associates a phone call at (323) 894-2449

Whether you have questions about your case or are ready to get started, our San Jose injury attorneys are ready to help.

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