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San Marcos, California — Authorities have identified the man who was killed in a late-night traffic collision in San Marcos over the weekend that investigators say involved a suspected drunk driver.
The victim was identified as Benjamin Lo Cicero, 34, according to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office. The fatal crash occurred shortly after 11:30 p.m. Saturday in the 900 block of West San Marcos Boulevard.
Deputies responding to the scene found Lo Cicero had been struck by a Ford F-150. Law enforcement officers immediately rendered emergency medical aid until paramedics arrived and continued lifesaving efforts. Despite those attempts, Lo Cicero was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the pickup truck, identified as Daniel Vega, 54, was allegedly under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash, sheriff’s officials said. Vega was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
According to Sgt. Jeremy Collis of the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office, the circumstances surrounding the fatal collision remain under investigation. Authorities have not released additional details about how the crash occurred.
The incident is part of an ongoing investigation by the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office.
What Compensation Can Be Claimed When a Wrongful Death Is Caused by a DUI?
When a person is killed by a drunk driver, California law allows surviving family members to pursue a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party. These cases are not only about accountability—they are also about securing financial stability and justice for the family left behind. An experienced car accident law firm can help identify all available damages and aggressively pursue full compensation.
Below are the main types of compensation that may be claimed when a wrongful death is caused by a DUI.
Economic Damages
Economic damages are meant to cover the measurable financial losses caused by the death, including:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical bills related to the fatal injuries prior to death
- Loss of the victim’s future income and employment benefits
- Loss of household services the deceased would have provided
A skilled DUI accident lawyer will work with financial experts to calculate the long-term economic impact of the loss, especially when the victim was a primary wage earner.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages address the profound personal loss suffered by surviving family members, such as:
- Loss of love, companionship, and emotional support
- Loss of guidance and protection (particularly for surviving children)
- Loss of consortium for a surviving spouse or partner
Under California law, these damages are a central part of any wrongful death claim and are often the most significant component of compensation. A wrongful death attorney California can present compelling evidence to demonstrate the depth of these losses.
Punitive Damages (In Certain Cases)
While punitive damages are not awarded in every wrongful death case, DUI-related fatalities may qualify in specific circumstances. If the drunk driver’s conduct is proven to be especially reckless or egregious, punitive damages may be pursued to punish the behavior and deter similar actions in the future.
These damages are typically handled alongside related claims with the help of experienced car accident lawyers in California who understand how DUI liability is litigated.
Who Can File a Claim?
In California, wrongful death claims are usually filed by the deceased person’s spouse, domestic partner, children, or other legal dependents. If none exist, other eligible heirs may have the right to pursue compensation.
Families in San Diego County may benefit from working with San Diego car accident attorneys who are familiar with local courts, law enforcement investigations, and DUI prosecution processes.
Speak With Megeredchian Law Today
Wrongful death cases involving drunk drivers are complex, emotionally charged, and time-sensitive. Megeredchian Law has extensive experience holding impaired drivers accountable and fighting for maximum compensation for grieving families.Call Megeredchian Law at (866) 359-0807 to schedule a free, confidential consultation. Our team is ready to review your case, explain your legal options, and protect your family’s rights every step of the way.
