San Francisco Drunk Driving Accident Lawyer
Was Your Crash Caused By a Drunk Driver?
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 28 people die every day in the U.S. because of an alcohol-impaired driver. Drunk driving accidents account for nearly one-third of all traffic fatalities in California and across the country. In fact, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) states that over 50% of all traffic accidents are alcohol-related.
Drinking and driving is against the law. It impairs a person’s faculties, impeding their ability to operate a motor vehicle safely. If you or a loved one were involved in an accident involving a drunk driver, we invite you to contact the San Francisco drunk driving accident attorneys at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP today.
Understanding the Consequences of Drunk Driving Accidents
Drunk driving accidents can have devastating consequences for both the victims and the at-fault drivers. It is important to understand the severity of these accidents and the potential long-term effects they can have on your life.
Here are some key points to consider:
- Physical injuries: Drunk driving accidents often result in serious injuries, including broken bones, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and even fatalities. These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and may have a lasting impact on your quality of life.
- Emotional trauma: Being involved in a drunk driving accident can cause significant emotional distress. It is common to experience feelings of fear, anxiety, depression, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after such a traumatic event.
- Financial burden: The financial costs of a drunk driving accident can be overwhelming. You may face medical bills, lost wages due to time off work, property damage, and ongoing expenses related to your recovery. Seeking compensation for your injuries can help alleviate some of this burden.
- Legal implications: In addition to seeking compensation, it is important to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions. A skilled San Francisco drunk driving accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process, gather evidence, and build a strong case to ensure you receive the justice you deserve.
At Bostwick & Peterson, LLP, we understand the complexities of drunk driving accident cases and are dedicated to helping victims seek justice. Our experienced attorneys will fight tirelessly on your behalf to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses.
Your Rights After a Drunk Driving Accident
When drunk driving accidents occur, impaired drivers may be held responsible criminally and civilly. Drunk drivers can face a variety of criminal penalties, such as jail time, fines and license suspensions, and those injured by drunk drivers and their families may be able to pursue damages in a civil lawsuit.
By filing a personal injury lawsuit, accident victims may be able to recover damages for injuries sustained in the accident, including medical bills, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. In the event of a fatality, the surviving family members may be able to recover damages in a wrongful death lawsuit.
California Dram Shop Law
There are some form of dram shop laws in multiple states throughout the U.S. These laws allow establishments that sell or furnish alcohol to be held liable for drivers who get involved in car crashes. In states where dram shop laws apply, bar owners and others can be held responsible if they continue to serve alcohol to obviously intoxicated persons or to minors.
According to MADD, in California:
- There is no vendor liability for intoxicated adults.
- There is limited vendor liability for intoxicated minors.
- No social host law (parents or other adults who allow minors to consume alcohol on their premises).
- Per BUS §25602, a person cannot be held civilly liable for drunk driving injury or death if they sold or furnished alcohol to a “habitual or common drunkard or obviously intoxicated person,” but it can warrant a misdemeanor.
- Per BUS §25602.1, legal cause of action may be brought against the party who sold or furnished alcohol to a minor if that minor’s drunk driving was the proximate cause of injury or death.
NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED LAW FIRM
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Inner Circle of Advocates
Invitation-only organization of the top 100 plaintiff trial lawyers in the U.S.
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International Academy of Trial Lawyers
Former President of the International Academy of Trial Lawyers, limited to the top 500 trial lawyers in the U.S.
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Expertise - Best Car Accident Lawyers in San Francisco 2024
Selected to the 2024 Best Car Accident Lawyers in San Francisco list by Expertise.
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Super Lawyers 2024
James S. Bostwick and Erik L. Peterson have been named top-rated medical malpractice attorneys in Northern California.
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American Board of Trial Advocates
Invitation-only group of the nation’s top civil lawyers and judges.
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Expertise - Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Daly City 2024
Selected to the 2024 Best Personal Injury Lawyers in Daly City list by Expertise.
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American Board of Professional Liability Attorneys
James Bostwick is a nationally certified medical malpractice specialist and founding member.
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The Best Lawyers in America
Recognized since its inception in 1983 by this peer-reviewed publication, comprised of the best legal talent in the world.