This is how Dram Shop laws affect DUI accident lawsuits in San Francisco

San Francisco, CA – California has the second-highest number of fatalities resulting from a DUI accident. As this wasn’t bad enough, the city of San Francisco has an above-average number of drivers who have no qualms about getting behind the wheel after having too much to drink. According to statistics, one in four resident adults drinks excessively, which might explain why 17% of all accident victims in the city die in crashes involving alcohol. 

If you were recently injured or if you lost someone in this type of crash, you need to talk to the very best San Francisco DUI accident lawyers right away. Whether or not the irresponsible driver will be facing criminal charges, you must file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit to recover the damages you are entitled to. 

Who is liable for damages in a San Francisco DUI accident?

If you live in San Francisco, you will have to file a claim against the drunk driver’s insurance, or perhaps you may need to sue them. Getting a lawyer doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll go to court. Truth be told, most lawyers prefer to settle personal injury claims by negotiating with the insurance company representing the driver at fault. However, if you have sustained severe injuries and are left with huge medical bills, it might be in your best interest to sue. This way you can recover compensatory damages, as well as punitive damages. 

Another problem is the type of insurance the drunk driver has. If their insurance is not enough to cover your compensatory damages, seasoned San Francisco accident lawyers will advise you to file a lawsuit. 

Unlike other states, in California it is not possible to also sue the establishment where the driver got drunk. California does have a Dram Shop law, but it is a very restrictive one. In other states, you may be able to sue the owner of a bar that sold alcohol to a visibly drunk guy. In San Francisco, you may only do that if the driver was under the age of 21. 

At the same time, if the driver is under 21 you may be able to sue any adult who supplied them with alcohol using the so-called social host law.

How much is my DUI accident claim worth?

Probably more than the insurance company representing the other driver will offer you. If you’re in a serious accident and you sustain severe injuries you should never accept the first offer they make you. You should always talk to a good lawyer and see what they think.

Don’t look only at your economic damages, such as your medical expenses, your lost wages, and the cost to repair or replace your car.

After a serious accident, you can seek compensation for your pain and suffering. All the pain, the trauma, the loss of enjoyment in life, the anxiety the accident caused you – everything falls under non-economic damages and in San Francisco, there is no cap on this type of compensation. 

Attorneys near me

If you’re looking for an accident lawyer or need professional help with other legal matters, you may be wondering “Where can I find attorneys near me?” Don’t worry, help is just a few clicks away. Just follow the link and select the legal area you’re interested in, your state and your city, and schedule a free consultation with a trustworthy lawyer.