Outrage was our reaction, when we heard that innocent Samir Michel lost his life Saturday night to a 24-year-old drunk driver who came careening through Highland Park at a shocking speed of 80 mph in his 2015 Camaro, crossed into Samir’s lane of travel, and crashed head-on into Samir’s Hyundai Elantra. The young DUI driver who caused the fatal accident suffered a leg injury and head trauma, but he survived; Samir did not. Samir’s life ended in an explosive twisting of metal, at around 9:40 p.m., in the 4600 block of Marmion Way. He was only sixty-eight years old.

We cannot fathom the pain suffered by Samir’s family when they learned that a beloved son, husband, father, or brother had been killed in a residential neighborhood, through no fault of his own, in such a sudden and terrifying manner.

FAULT, DUI, and EXCESSIVE SPEED

Unfortunately for the young Camaro driver, any joy he felt in the miracle of his own survival was likely replaced quickly with the realization that his wanton speed and drunk driving had killed someone. Police arrested him, charging him with driving under the influence and vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence.

WRONGFUL DEATH LAWSUIT LIKELY

Criminal charges may be only the beginning of this reckless driver’s problems. Very likely, Samir Michel’s family will file a civil wrongful death lawsuit for damages, seeking monetary compensation for losses. A damages award might include money for Samir’s lost opportunities in life, such as future earnings; for their own pain and suffering; for their loss of consortium with the deceased; for benefits they lost as the result of the death, such as retirement or insurance; and for expenses such as funeral expenses.

In addition, if the Camaro driver is criminally convicted of the grossly-negligent vehicular manslaughter, the wrongful death plaintiffs may be awarded punitive damages, an award intended to punish the wrongdoer for his outrageous behavior in causing a death.

IMMEDIATE HELP

If someone you love has been injured or killed in an auto accident with a drunk driver, you need to find experienced legal help fast. Development of your legal case for liability and damages should begin immediately. An independent investigation should be undertaken quickly, to preserve evidence, interview witnesses, initiate insurance claims, and begin preparations to take action in court. Insurance adjustors may attempt to settle with you before you get legal advice, at a fraction of what your claim is worth. Don’t sign anything or accept any money until you have talked to a knowledgeable California personal injury and wrongful death attorney.

Our sponsoring attorneys have years of combined legal experience in the investigation and pursuit of wrongful death claims. With a proven track record of over and expertise in complex, difficult litigation, they have what it takes to get you what you deserve. Call them today at (888) 853-6696 for a completely free consultation.

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