Getting behind the wheel of a car while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a reckless choice – one that kills on average 32 people every day in the United States.  Families of victims killed in drunk driving accidents are faced with emotional grief, profound sadness, and often, tremendous financial burden. As a California personal injury law firm representing DUI accident victims and their families, the lawyers at Estey Bomberger understand the pain caused by drunk and intoxicated drivers. We are committed to compassionately representing families while aggressively pursuing justice for their loss in a wrongful death claim. We have represented surviving spouses, parents, children, siblings and grandparents in DUI accident wrongful death claims throughout California. Our clients have included passenger victims of DUI accidents, and other motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, and bystanders killed by drunk drivers.

Types of Wrongful Death Compensation

It is understandable that no dollar amount could ever ease the pain of a sudden and unexpected loss. However, in addition to the sadness and overwhelming grief DUI accidents cause, alcohol and drug related accidents cause vast financial burden. The death of a household income provider can render a family unable to make rent or mortgage payments and even cover day-to-day living expenses. A loved one’s death may also bring loss of health insurance, pension, and other benefits.  A claim against a drunk driver (or any other responsible party that contributed to an alcohol related accident) may provide compensation for final medical expenses (if applicable), funeral and burial expenses, loss of anticipated lifetime earnings and benefits, and loss of love, care, companionship and protection. The amount of compensation a family may be entitled to may vary widely depending on dozens of variables, but compensation may be substantial.

Wrongful Death Statute of Limitations

Under California (and every state), families of victims of fatal accidents have only a limited amount of time to bring a claim for a loss. While in California this time limit is generally two years from the date of a death, the actual time limit may vary depending on the status of the plaintiff and the defendant. Because of strict time limits, it is always a good idea to seek legal guidance as soon as possible after an accident. As a general rule, it is never too early to contact a lawyer. Although contacting a lawyer in the immediate days following a fatal accident may seem unnecessary and untimely, the immediate aftermath of an accident is a time when evidence is still fresh, and witness accounts are best recollected. While you focus on moving forward, we will preserve evidence, review law enforcement reports, and gather all necessary information necessary to build your case against a drunk driver and any other negligent parties.

Protecting Your Legal Rights after a Loss

Fatal accidents have unique legal issues. If you are seeking legal assistance for a wrongful death claim after a fatal DUI accident in California, contact Estey Bomberger to discuss your case with an attorney. All consultations are free, with absolutely no obligation. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to listen to your story, answer your questions, and provide guidance and support. After any accident, before accepting a settlement, it is always advisable to seek a consultation with an experienced and knowledgeable California wrongful death lawyer. Fill out our online case submission form or call us anytime at (800) 784-9180.