Drunk Driving Accidents (DWI/DUI)

Last year, in North County San Diego there were several drunk driving accidents, including accidents in Oceanside, Escondido, Carlsbad, San Marcos and Vista. Countywide there were 11 fatal drunk driving accidents that resulted in sixteen deaths. The statistics were similar in 2015 when fifteen people in San Diego were killed in DUI crashes (San Diego Police Department). In 2015, 29% of all traffic fatalities nationally were attributed to drunk driving, a decrease of 51% since 1982, according to the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility. Our San Diego drunk driving accident lawyers can help victims or their families bring claims following a serious accident.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported that the number of youth under 21 that were killed in drunk driving accidents has decreased from record high of 80% in 1982 to 10% of all DUI fatalities in the U.S, a decrease of 49% over the past decade.

Public awareness campaigns in the media, at schools and on the web, to fight drunk driving by organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) and others, can be attributed to these significant decreases in drunk driving fatalities over the past few decades. And yet, people continue to drive drunk, which is inexcusable given the various transportation options available including Uber and Lyft.

However, it only takes one drunk driving fatality to have a devastating effect on a family. Serving people throughout the San Diego area, the drunk driving accident attorneys at Walton Law Firm has extensive experience helping local North San Diego County families receive justice through compensation after the horrific experience of a serious DUI crash. If you or a loved one has been the victim of a drunk driving accident it is important that you seek help on your case immediately because in California, there is a two-year statute of limitation on car accident lawsuits.

Walton Law Firm can guide you in navigating the frustrating and often complex process of investigating an accident’s cause, and making a claim with insurance companies. After such a devastating accident, the last thing you want to do is deal with forms and uncaring insurance adjusters who are more focused on keeping your payment as low as possible rather than helping you receive the medical care, lost wages, and other financial support you need.

If, after pursuing a settlement from the insurance company, the San Diego drunk driving accident attorneys at Walton Law Firm find that a fair settlement from the insurance company cannot be reached, then we will pursue the option of a lawsuit. In this case, and complaint is filed with the court (which outlines the facts of the case and the causes of action), which asks for monetary damages, including past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and a large sum for the pain, suffering, and inconvenience the accident has caused. In drunk driving cases, punitive damages may also be sought. The lawsuit can lead to a trial, where Walton Law Firm will have the opportunity to present evidence and explain your side of the story to a judge or jury.

Whether you need to file a lawsuit or need assistance to negotiate a fair settlement with the insurance company, Walton Law Firm can help. We have successfully represented individuals and families who have been victims of all types of car accidents for 20 years. We would be happy to provide a free consultation with a lawyer to discuss your accident. We will provide an honest appraisal of your case, and let you know if you even need a drunk driving accident lawyer in San Diego. Or, if you prefer, you can submit a confidential question online. You can reach us at 866-607-1325 or locally in North San Diego County at 760-571-5500.