If you or a loved one was hit by a drunk driver in San Francisco, choose a firm with proven experience and results. At The Cartwright Law Firm, we understand the pain, frustration, and uncertainty that come with a serious injury. Our drunk driving accident lawyers in San Francisco can work diligently to recover maximum compensation while you focus on restoring your health.
With over 70 years of experience and millions of dollars recovered in Northern California, our firm is well-equipped to represent your best interests in and out of the courtroom. As skilled litigators, we prepare every matter for trial and never shy away from litigation if necessary to achieve a fair outcome. Our goal is to guide your steps with care and integrity while aggressively pursuing the justice you deserve.
If you were harmed by someone else’s negligence, don’t wait to seek justice. Our attorneys can help you navigate the legal proceedings with compassionate counsel tailored to your unique legal needs. From recouping medical bills and lost wages to establishing liability, let us handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing during this stressful time. Reach out today to learn how you can take the first step toward rebuilding your life.
If you were hit by a drunk driver, we can help you pursue justice. Contact us online to request a free consultation with our drunk driving accident lawyer in San Francisco.
Car accidents can lead to devastating injuries for victims, especially in collisions involving drunk driving. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol-related traffic fatalities accounted for more than 32% of all traffic deaths on California roads between 2020 and 2021. The rate increased by 16% between 2020 and 2021 following a 4% surge in alcohol-related deaths from 2019 to 2020, making it crucial to stay vigilant and know your rights after a drunk driving accident.
Drunk driving accidents can result in a wide range of serious injuries, including:
Proving liability is an important yet complex step to recovering compensation in any injury claim. This is where having a skilled attorney on your side can make all the difference. Your San Francisco drunk driving accident lawyer can thoroughly investigate your case, identify negligent parties, and gather evidence to establish liability by proving four key elements. These include:
Building a strong claim is critical to meeting the standard of proof in a drunk driving accident lawsuit. Because the victim (plaintiff) bears the burden of proof, securing experienced representation is essential to prove liability by a preponderance of the evidence (e.g., that the defendant “more likely than not” caused your injuries).
Some examples of strong evidence include:
While the impaired driver is typically the primary party responsible for the accident, other liable parties may be involved as well. Some common examples include parents of teenage drivers, private event hosts, and bars, clubs, or restaurants.
At The Cartwright Law Firm, we leave no stone unturned when seeking justice. Our firm can investigate the accident with a practiced legal eye to assess every legal avenue for financial recovery and maximize the total compensation available to you.
After a drunk driving accident, the intoxicated driver will generally face DUI charges in criminal court. However, the victim must bring a separate civil lawsuit to recover compensation. Understanding the difference between civil and criminal cases is key to achieving a favorable outcome.
The burden of proof in criminal cases is higher than in civil proceedings. While the impaired driver must be found guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in criminal court, civil cases only require proof by a preponderance of the evidence, meaning there is a 51% chance or higher that the defendant’s negligence directly caused the accident.
No matter your legal circumstances, working with a qualified drunk driving accident lawyer is important to navigate the legal complexities of your matter and recover a fair settlement.
Various types of compensation may be recovered in a drunk driving accident claim, including economic damages for direct financial losses and non-economic damages for indirect, non-financial losses. Common recoverable damages include:
In cases involving especially egregious misconduct, courts may also award punitive damages to punish the defendant and deter similar behavior in the future. Consulting a trusted lawyer is imperative to maximize the value of your claim and assess the total damages available to you.
If you were hit by a drunk driver near the Embarcadero, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other losses. Consulting an experienced drunk driving accident lawyer in San Francisco is critical for gathering evidence and maximizing available damages. Our attorneys can meticulously investigate the accident, identify liable parties, and fight tirelessly to recover full compensation on your behalf.
If your car was totaled by a drunk driver on I-280, you may be entitled to compensation for vehicular damage, as well as medical expenses, treatment costs, lost wages, and other losses. Our lawyers can help you file a lawsuit against the intoxicated driver and represent your best interests at trial if necessary to recover the full compensation you need to get back on your feet.
In California, the statute of limitations for drunk driving injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. However, some exceptions may apply in certain cases. Seeking sound counsel from a qualified drunk driving accident attorney is paramount to filing your claim correctly and within the appropriate deadline.
After a drunk driving accident, ensuring your safety is the top priority. If possible, move to a safe location and call 911 to report the incident and request medical assistance. Gather as much information as possible, including the offending driver’s details, witnesses’ contact information, and scene photographs. Avoid making any statements that could be perceived as admitting fault. Once you’re safe, document your injuries and seek medical attention even if you don’t think you’re hurt, as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Finally, contact a qualified drunk driving accident attorney in San Francisco to discuss your legal options and begin filing a claim.
Proving a driver’s intoxication typically involves gathering evidence such as police reports, which can include the results of field sobriety tests and chemical tests like breathalyzers. Eyewitness statements and videos captured at the scene can further support your claim. In some cases, the driver’s records might be accessed to demonstrate a history of reckless behavior. Engaging a lawyer with experience in drunk driving accidents can significantly bolster your ability to effectively collect and present this evidence, increasing the likelihood of a successful claim.
If you were injured in a drunk driving accident, time is of the essence. Some advantages of partnering with our knowledgeable attorneys include:
If you or a loved one has been injured in a drunk driving accident, don’t delay in getting the legal support you need. Our San Francisco drunk driving accident lawyers are ready to fight for the justice and the compensation you rightfully deserve. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these accidents take, and we’re committed to standing by your side every step of the way. Call us today for a free consultation to get started.
Don’t wait to seek justice after a drunk driving accident. Our San Francisco drunk driving accident lawyers can fight for the compensation you deserve. Call (415-433-0444) to schedule a free consultation.