Wrongful Death Claims for DUI Fatalities

After a loved one is killed in a car accident, you may feel as though your life will never be the same again. But now that you know the other driver was drunk, you’re also angry about the injustice of an innocent life lost.

While no amount of compensation can ever replace a life, a Kern County wrongful death lawyer can help you find peace and receive compensation that will help you move on from the tragedy.

The Link Between Wrongful Death and DUI Claims

Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is one of the most common causes of deadly traffic accidents worldwide. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), over 30% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States involve drinking or drug use. 

Alcohol impairs a driver’s ability to react quickly, judge distances, and make sound decisions—creating dangerous conditions for everyone on the road. Whether it’s swerving between lanes, running red lights, or failing to stop at stop signs, the consequences of DUI-related accidents are often catastrophic. 


A drunk driving car accident could result in a DUI charge, a criminal offense brought by the state. However, victims have a right to file separate civil claims against a drunk driver for the costs of their injuries. If a victim dies in a crash, their right to sue doesn’t die with them—it passes to their next of kin and becomes a wrongful death case. 

A wrongful death lawsuit allows family members to seek compensation for expenses related to the crash and the untimely death of a relative. All drivers have a basic duty of care to one another: to act responsibly when operating a vehicle. The drunk driver’s impairment is considered a form of negligence, making them legally liable for the victim’s death.

Types of Compensation for DUI Deaths

Wrongful death car accidents can leave families devastated in several ways. In addition to the profound grief of losing a family member, surviving relatives often face unexpected expenses. In such tragic circumstances, a wrongful death claim can help provide much-needed financial relief. 

A crash victim’s family members may be able to recover compensation for:

• Medical bills. Even if the victim passes away shortly after the accident, any medical treatments they received prior to their death can be considerable.
• Funeral and burial costs. Funeral expenses can quickly add up, leaving families struggling financially during an already difficult time.
• Lost income. If the victim was the primary earner, their death can create long-term financial hardship for their family. Compensation can cover lost earnings, both current and future.
• Pain and suffering. Emotional distress, therapy costs, sleepless nights, loss of parental guidance, loss of companionship, and the anguish caused by the wrongful death of a loved one can be financially compensated for as well.

Do I Need to Hire a Wrongful Death Lawyer?

Seeking justice can help survivors find a sense of closure and possibly prevent further harm. However, navigating the wrongful death legal process can be draining. The practical and legal hurdles families must overcome are daunting, especially when added to the pain of loss. 

A skilled personal injury lawyer with experience in wrongful death claims can provide invaluable support during this difficult time, offering:

• Tenacity. A legal professional understands the complexities of wrongful death claims and is committed to fighting for the justice your family deserves.
• Guidance. A skilled attorney can help families understand their legal rights and guide them through every step of the legal process.
• Reconnaissance. They can gather essential evidence, speak to witnesses, and handle all the paperwork involved, allowing grieving families to focus on healing and mourning their loss. 
• Assistance. In addition, a lawyer’s expertise can help ensure that the family receives the maximum compensation to cover the full extent of their damages.

Speak to a Drunk Driving Wrongful Death Attorney Today

If you have lost a loved one due to the negligence of a drunk driver, our wrongful death lawyers can help determine who is at fault and how to proceed in your case. Contact Chain | Cohn | Clark today for a no-obligation, free case review.