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San Marcos, California – A pedestrian was struck and killed by a pickup truck late Saturday night in San Marcos, and the driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence, authorities said.
Deputies responded at approximately 11:45 p.m. to the 900 block of West San Marcos Boulevard, where they found the pedestrian lying in the westbound lanes of the roadway, according to Sgt. Jeremy Collis of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department’s San Marcos station.
Investigators determined that the collision involved a maroon Ford F-150 pickup truck and a pedestrian. Deputies and paramedics immediately rendered life-saving aid at the scene, but the pedestrian was pronounced dead at 11:58 p.m.
The driver of the pickup truck remained at the scene and cooperated with the investigation. Authorities determined that the driver was under the influence of alcohol and subsequently arrested him on suspicion of drunken driving.
The identity of the pedestrian has not been released.
The crash remains under investigation. Anyone with information related to the incident is urged to contact the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department’s San Marcos station at 760-510-5200.
How to Claim Compensation After a Fatal DUI Pedestrian Accident
When a pedestrian is killed by a drunk driver, surviving family members may have the right to pursue financial compensation through a wrongful death claim. These cases are both emotionally and legally complex, especially when DUI is involved, but California law provides clear paths for holding the responsible driver accountable.
Establishing Liability in a Fatal DUI Pedestrian Accident
In DUI-related pedestrian fatalities, liability often centers on the impaired driver’s unlawful conduct. Police reports, DUI arrest records, toxicology results, witness statements, and traffic camera footage can all be critical pieces of evidence. An experienced car accident law firm can gather and preserve this evidence early to build a strong claim on behalf of the victim’s family.
Because driving under the influence is a criminal offense, a DUI arrest can significantly strengthen a civil case. However, a criminal case and a civil wrongful death claim are separate proceedings, each with different standards of proof.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?
Under California law, wrongful death claims are typically filed by:
- The victim’s spouse or domestic partner
- Children of the deceased
- Other dependents or heirs in certain circumstances
A qualified wrongful death attorney california can determine who is eligible to file and ensure the claim is brought within the statute of limitations.
What Compensation May Be Available?
Compensation in a fatal DUI pedestrian accident may include:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship, care, and guidance
- Medical expenses incurred before death
In some DUI cases, punitive damages may also be pursued to punish especially reckless behavior. Skilled dui accident attorneys can evaluate whether punitive damages apply based on the facts of the case.
Why Pedestrian Accident Experience Matters
Pedestrian fatality cases involve unique liability and insurance issues, particularly when the victim was outside a vehicle. Working with a pedestrian accident lawyer california ensures that investigators, accident reconstruction experts, and medical professionals are properly utilized to prove fault and damages.
Local Representation in San Diego Matters
If the fatal crash occurred in San Diego County, local knowledge of courts, law enforcement agencies, and insurers can make a meaningful difference. San Diego car accident attorneys are familiar with local procedures and can act quickly to protect your family’s rights.
Speak With Megeredchian Law Today
Fatal DUI pedestrian accidents demand immediate legal action and experienced representation. Megeredchian Law has a proven track record of handling complex wrongful death and DUI cases across California.Call (866) 359-0807 today to schedule a free consultation. There are no upfront costs, and you pay nothing unless compensation is recovered.
