Just last Tuesday a Long Beach Fire Department captain was sentenced to time in jail and probation after pleading guilty to severely injuring a bicyclist while driving intoxicated. According to a story in the Los Angeles Times, John David Hines of Orange County (Huntington Beach) was driving with a blood-alcohol level three times the legal limit when the accident happened. In addition to the one year in jail and the five years of probation, Hines was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $102,000.00 to the victim. The incident happened on April 1st after Hines became intoxicated at the Schooner or Later restaurant in Long Beach before driving erratically, losing control and crashing into a 47 year-old cyclist in Orange County.
See the Los Angeles Times story HERE.
It only takes a moment for a drunk driver to take a life or alter one forever. The victim in the crash above, Jeffrey Gordon, was treated for head trauma, severe lacerations and bruising to his head and body, internal injuries, and spinal and vertebrae injuries. Gordon remained in the hospital for two weeks and continues to suffer pain as a result of his injuries. Gordon apparently filed a victim impact statement, with the court in which he describes the severity of his injuries and the changes in his life since the accident. In addition to the ordered restitution, Gordon has civil remedies at his disposal which may allow him to recover at least some semblance of compensation for the devastation to his life.
Compensation for the victims of drunk driving accidents should be an important concern for all Californians. When a driver operates their vehicle while under the influence and causes a serious or fatal accident, they should be held accountable. An Orange County auto accident lawyer with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims. Mr. Ralph has more than 20 years years of experience handling Orange County automobile accident cases, including those involving intoxicated drivers. He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.
Have you or a loved one been severely injured by a drunk driver?
Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above. This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter. A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.
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