Drunk driving accidents cause some of the most devastating injuries on California roads. These crashes are entirely preventable, yet they continue to happen every day. For victims and families, the consequences can last a lifetime.

According to the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2023, 12,429 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes in the U.S. That’s one person roughly every 42 minutes, and it represents about 30% of all traffic fatalities that year. California consistently ranks among the top states for DUI-related fatalities. Behind each number is a person, a family, and a life that was changed forever.

At Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook, we help people across the Bay Area who were injured or lost a loved one due to a drunk driver. If you’re facing this situation, you deserve answers, accountability, and compensation.

What Are Common Injuries in Drunk Driving Accidents?

When someone drives under the influence, their reaction time slows and their judgment is impaired. This often leads to high-speed, head-on, or side-impact collisions that cause catastrophic injuries. Victims may suffer:

  • Traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
  • Burns and scarring
  • Internal bleeding or organ damage
  • Broken bones
  • Severe whiplash or back injuries

Some victims require months or years of medical treatment. Others may never return to work or live independently again. These accidents affect not only your health but also your ability to support yourself and your family.

Can You File a Wrongful Death Claim After a Fatal DUI Crash?

When a drunk driver causes a fatal crash, families are left with grief, unanswered questions, and financial strain. California law allows surviving family members to file a wrongful death claim to seek justice and recover compensation.

If your loved one was killed in a drunk driving crash, you may be able to pursue damages for:

  • Funeral and burial costs
  • Loss of companionship
  • Loss of income and benefits
  • Pain and suffering

While no legal action can undo the loss, holding the driver accountable can provide closure and financial stability during a difficult time. We are here to help your family take that step forward.

Who May Be Liable in a Drunk Driving Crash?

Most people assume that only the drunk driver is responsible for a crash. In reality, others may have played a role in allowing the driver to get behind the wheel.

Potentially liable parties may include:

  • The driver who was impaired by alcohol or drugs
  • A vehicle owner who let someone intoxicated drive their car
  • An employer who failed to supervise or train a commercial driver
  • A social host who served alcohol to a minor

Although California’s dram shop laws are limited, there are narrow circumstances where a bar or restaurant may also be held liable. We will carefully examine the facts of your case to determine who should be held accountable.

How Can We Help You Recover Compensation?

Since 1979, Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook has represented injury victims throughout Walnut Creek and Contra Costa County. We understand how to handle drunk driving accident claims and build strong cases for full and fair compensation.

Depending on the details of your case, you may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical bills, hospital stays, and future care
  • Lost income and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and emotional suffering
  • Property damage

Our attorneys can also help you seek punitive damages in appropriate cases to further hold the impaired driver accountable.

What Are Punitive Damages in DUI Cases?

California law allows victims of drunk driving crashes to seek punitive damages when the conduct goes beyond ordinary negligence. Driving under the influence is considered a conscious disregard for the safety of others.

These additional damages are meant to punish the driver and send a clear message to the public. The amount awarded often depends on:

  • The severity of the injuries
  • Whether the driver had prior DUI convictions
  • The level of intoxication involved

We pursue punitive damages in cases where they are justified, helping ensure that the person who harmed you is held fully responsible.

Contact Our Experienced Walnut Creek Drunk Driving Accident Attorneys

A drunk driving crash can change everything in an instant. If you’ve been injured or lost someone you love, you don’t have to go through it alone. At Casper, Meadows, Schwartz & Cook, we’re committed to helping our clients rebuild after tragedy.

We’ll investigate your case, deal with the insurance companies, and fight for the compensation you need. No matter how serious your injuries may be, we’ll be with you every step of the way.

We are proud to serve Walnut Creek, Contra Costa County, and the surrounding Bay Area. Contact us today, and let us help you take the next step forward.