Legal Question in DUI Law in California

accident liability

I was in a traffic accident on may 20, 2006.I hit the back of someones car in the process.I got a Felony Dui out of it in court.I will be on probation for three years 120 days of some sort of work release.What I want to know is if there is a time limit for the other party to sue me for damages to there car, body,ect.And if they do sue me,will the court have the right to make me give these people all the money I have saved.Should I put this money into my wifes bank account or something?I want to pay what I owe, but I dont want to live on the street either


Asked on 1/12/07, 9:43 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Jonathan Stein Law Offices of Jonathan G. Stein

Re: accident liability

They have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit for personal injury and three years for property damage.

If you had insurance, ask your insurance company to defend you.

If you did not have insurance, you will either have to hire an attorney (a very expensive proposition for what is probably a losing case) or you will have to try to settle it with them. If the other person has uninsured motorist coverage, her insurance company will pay her and then they will sue you. Again, you can either settle or hire an attorney.

As for your assets, any attempt to hide assets is fraudulent and will get you into more trouble. I would avoid going that direction completely as your wife could get in trouble (civilly and criminally) as well.

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Answered on 1/13/07, 12:25 pm
Michael Stone Law Offices of Michael B. Stone Toll Free 1-855-USE-MIKE

Re: accident liability

They have two years from the date of the accident to sue, and they could also ask the court to order restitution in the criminal case. If you receive a lawsuit, tell your insurance company right away. If you don't have insurance, you will need to hire a lawyer to defend any lawsuits (if you have insurance, the insurance company will give you a free lawyer to defend the lawsuit).

Fortunately for you, some people don't consult attorneys or file lawsuits even when they are injured by a scumbag DUI felon, or uninsured deadbeat scumbag DUI felons, such as yourself. DUI accident victims can seek punitive damages and are entitled to "trial setting preference."

Sorry, it would be unethical for me to advise you on how to fraudulently transfer or hide your assets to avoid a judgment.

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Answered on 1/12/07, 10:45 pm


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