With the influx of visitors for major events like tennis tournaments, golf competitions, horse and car racing, Spring Break, and the White Party, this time of year sees a rise in personal injury (PI) and DUI cases. Add in the recent rains making roads slick, and the lack of experience many local drivers have with such conditions, and accidents become even more likely.

While the legal process following an accident or DUI case is complex, the best approach is simple: Drink responsibly—or better yet, don’t drink and drive. Impaired driving is drunk driving, and an Uber ride is always cheaper than me!

Be Aware of Checkpoints and Law Enforcement Protocol

Law enforcement, including the Sheriff’s Department and California Highway Patrol, increases its presence during these busy months. If you are stopped at a checkpoint or pulled over on suspicion of DUI, keep these key points in mind:

  1. When asked if you’ve been drinking, politely state: “Before I say or do anything, I want to speak with my attorney.” The Constitution protects your right to remain silent.
  2. If asked to step out of your vehicle, comply but continue to request legal counsel before proceeding with any tests or questioning.
  3. The preliminary breath test at the scene is optional (unless you are on probation). You may decline and request to speak with your attorney first.
  4. Field Sobriety Tests are also optional and are often designed to work against you. You can say: “My attorney has advised me that these tests are not mandatory, and I elect not to take them. I will cooperate, but I would like to speak with my attorney first.”

Protect Yourself After an Accident

If you are involved in an accident, taking the right steps can make all the difference in protecting your rights and securing a fair outcome:

  • Keep a case diary. Write down everything that happened, including conversations, names, dates, and times.
  • Take photos and videos. Capture images of the accident scene, vehicle damage, injuries, and any relevant road conditions.
  • Gather witness information. Record statements and obtain contact details from any bystanders.
  • Seek medical attention immediately. Some injuries take time to appear, so get checked even if you feel fine at first.
  • Notify your insurance company but do not admit fault until you have consulted with your attorney.

Choosing the Right Lawyer Matters

Not all attorneys advertising in the Coachella Valley are truly local. Many firms rent office space here but operate from other cities. Instead of choosing a lawyer based on a catchy slogan or TV jingle, select an experienced, local attorney who understands the specific legal landscape of our community. In addition as a faculty member of the International College of Orthopedic Surgeons, I lectured yearly on how to Write a Med/Legal Report that best words the facts to generate more money.

When in doubt, remember: Think before you drink, and if you get into legal trouble, consult an experienced DUI attorney before making any statements.

5-Star Career & Top Accident Lawyer/DUI Attorney Honors: Recognized by Google, Justia, Martindale, Avvo, Palm Springs Life, and Inland Empire Magazine etc with 35 Top Lawyer Awards, 9 Man of the Year honors, 4 Dale Gribow Days, and the prestigious Mr. Charity Award for philanthropic contributions. Gribow limits cases and personally answers calls at 760.837.7500.

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