Did a Drunk Driver Hit You?
If you were injured in a drunk driving accident — in the other vehicle or as a pedestrian — the experienced lawyers of Galine, Frye & Fitting can represent you in a lawsuit for damages. In certain cases, punitive damages may apply.
Our San Mateo law firm has successfully represented drunk driver victims across the San Francisco Bay Area. Contact us to arrange a free case evaluation.
Drunk Driving Accidents
Many drunk driving accidents result from unsafe lane changes, crossing the center line, rear-ending or running through red lights or stop signs. This sudden impact at high speed often intensifies injuries because the victims had no chance to react.
NOTE: It is not necessary to prove that the person was legally drunk. We have collected full compensation even if the person was not convicted of driving under the influence. If the police report or witnesses indicate the driver had been drinking at all (or using drugs), we have access to experts in accident reconstruction, toxicology and human factors who can demonstrate how the driver's vision, judgment, motor skills and reaction times were impaired.
Compensation and Punitive Damages
If there is a conviction, it obviously helps your case. Under California law, victims can bring a civil lawsuit for punitive damages for certain factors such as prior DUIs or a BAC (blood alcohol concentration) well above the legal limit. Punitive damages are up to 10 times your actual damages (medicals, wages, pain and suffering).
If the drunk driver did not have insurance or your losses exceed their coverage limits, Galine, Frye & Fitting pursues compensation under your own uninsured/underinsured motorist policy. It may also be possible to pursue the personal assets of the intoxicated driver.
Can I Sue the Bar or Host That Served the Drunk Driver?
Unfortunately, California's statutes make it virtually impossible to collect dram shop damages for a drunk driving accident or alcohol related injury.
Can I Sue If I Was a Passenger of the Drunk Driver?
Possibly. If the defense can prove that you provided the alcohol or knew the driver was drunk and rode along anyway, your claim may not succeed. Let our knowledgeable attorneys determine if you have a case.
Call Us Day or Night
Prompt investigation is important in any car accident, and maybe more so in a drunk driving accident. If you were the victim of a drinking and driving accident, e-mail Galine, Frye & Fitting or call us 24/7 at (866) 935-5602.
