If you’ve ever asked a lawyer a legal question, you’ve probably heard the most honest answer: “It depends.” That’s not a cop-out—it’s reality. In ACCIDENT and DUI law, outcomes hinge on a multitude of variables.
Do I need a PI/DUI lawyer? Should s/he be a specialist? Does my attorney need to be local or top-rated? Yes—and maybe. Ideally, you want an attorney who focuses on the critically injured or criminally accused, preferably with experience and top-tier ratings. A local lawyer matters, as you want a lawyer who knows the judges, opposing attorneys, and courthouse nuances. Knowledge is important, and so are relationships.
Will my case settle or go to trial? How long will it take? What percent will you take? Again, it depends! Every accident case has unique facts and some settle quickly. Others drag on due to medical treatment timelines or insurance tactics. And no, not all cases have the same fee structure, though most PI attorneys work on a 1/3 contingency—meaning no fee unless we win.
What courtroom will we be in? Which judge? How does that affect my case? Again, it depends. Some judges are plaintiff-friendly, others more skeptical. Some like me, others might not. That can shape rulings on evidence and tone the courtroom takes toward you.
Does it matter which doctor I see? Absolutely. A strong med/legal report can dramatically boost the value of your case. I’ve been honored to serve on the faculty at the International College of Orthopedic Surgeons; annual conference, teaching physicians how to write these reports—something few local doctors learned in medical school. An experience PI trial lawyer chooses a doctor who understands your legal needs, not just your medical ones.
Will my lawyer make a difference? Yes, because facts are open to interpretation. A good lawyer doesn’t make up facts—they make the difference, as they shape how the facts are interpreted. For example:
- Prior injuries? The Insurance Co. will blame your pain on past medical issues. I argue: The crash reactivated symptoms or created new ones—that’s not a coincidence.
- No ER visit? The defense says, “You must not have been hurt.” I say, “It wasn’t a medical emergency—it doesn’t mean no injury.”
- Gap in treatment? They claim you’re faking. I say, “No cure doesn’t mean no pain. Life gets in the way, but the injury lingers.”
What about DUIs?
Sentencing is where a lawyer can truly make a difference. I personalize each case, presenting a full life story to the court—who the client is, what led to the arrest, and their plans for redemption. This stage allows me to advocate for fairness, not just punishment.
What about talking to the police or adjusters? Don’t! Remain silent! It’s not what’s said—it’s what they thought you said! Remember, they are not on your side; You’re not in good hands; Your friendly neighbor will not give you a piece of the rock. Say as little as possible and put the blame on your lawyer who advised you not to talk without his/her ok. Politely ask them to call me at 760.837.7500 for an ok.
What can affect my case that I might not even think about? A lot. What you wear in court; how likable you are; what you told the doctor—or forgot to mention. I once saw a jury turn against a plaintiff because his well-dressed family looked “too wealthy” and they didn’t need the money. In my early days in an insurance defense firm, the senior partner would downplay wealth, to avoid big verdicts against the insurance company. He would drive a cheap car to court and wear an inexpensive suit. Jurors are human and impressions matter. Even how you park matters, so don’t take two spaces. I advise all clients not to cut people off or flip anyone off within 5 miles of the courthouse—that person might end up on your jury.
Documentation is the name of the game. Keep a daily Pain Accident Diary. Consistent treatment and why you missed appointments is important. These tell a story—and juries trust stories… although they are often open to interpretation. Success also depends on your doctors: Are they credible? Did they write strong med/legal reports?
So how much will I get in my accident case? It depends on fault, treatment, documentation, credibility, jurisdiction, and yes—luck. The judge, the opposing counsel, and even the court clerk can influence the tone of the trial. It is important to build rapport with everyone in the courtroom, including the sheriff and reporter. If the jury sees that I like my client, they may assume the client deserves to win.
In Closing: If you’ve been reading my legal column for the past 14 years, you already know—I’m law-and-order oriented, but I make the DA prove their DUI case. I’m proud to be the only Coachella Valley attorney with a badge and police ID. I’ve also walked in the shoes of accident victims and know what they are going to go through. Don’t let someone tell you how to tie your laces who hasn’t gone through what you are experiencing. I know what’s at stake.
Hire a local attorney, not a 1-800 ad or a TV slogan. Choose experience, reputation, and personal dedication. Your future self will thank you!
Remember: DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE … Uber is cheaper than me!
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GIVE THIS CARD TO OFFICER WITH YOUR LICENSE, REGISTRATION AND INSURANCE
REMAIN SILENT UNTIL YOU TALK TO ME! Politely tell the officer “I am happy to talk to you. However, my lawyer advised me to elect exercising my right to remain silent, until he gives me an ok.
Please contact Dale Gribow, (760) 837-7500 or dale@dalegribowlaw.com before I answer any questions.
I respectfully decline the optional Field Sobriety Tests and Preliminary Alcohol Screening (PAS) breath test at the scene. However, I agree to take a blood test, as required by law.
REMEMBER: It’s not what’s said… it’s what they think you said. Police and insurance companies are not on your side.
EVERY 48 SECONDS, a drunk driver makes someone eligible for a disabled parking permit. Don’t be a statistic. Know your rights and Don’t Drink and Drive.
DALE GRIBOW Attorney at Law
35-Top Lawyer, 10.0/5-Star, Career PI/DUI Awards, with 9 Man of the Year; 4 Dale Gribow Days and “Mr. Charity”- recognizing dozens of legal/philanthropic awards… signifying “The Best”. Dale limits cases and personally answers calls.
You don’t need a lawyer…until you do, so Save my number, 760.837.7500 for a rainy day, next to your plumber and electrician. I’ll guide or find affordable options for you…honestly!
