DUI Accident Lawyer in Encino, CA

California DUI Laws and Your Civil Claim

California Vehicle Code Section 23152 makes it illegal to drive with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or higher. When a driver violates this law and injures you, they are negligent per se — meaning their illegal act is automatic proof of negligence in your civil case. You do not need to prove they were careless. The DUI conviction or arrest record is powerful evidence in your personal injury claim.

The Difference Between Criminal and Civil DUI Cases

A DUI case has two separate tracks. The criminal case involves the state prosecuting the drunk driver for breaking the law. You have no control over this process and receive no compensation from it directly. The civil case involves you filing a personal injury claim to recover compensation for your injuries. This is entirely separate from the criminal case and you can pursue it regardless of whether the driver is convicted. Even if the drunk driver is acquitted in criminal court, you can still win your civil case because the burden of proof is lower — preponderance of evidence rather than beyond a reasonable doubt.

Punitive Damages in DUI Accident Cases

Unlike most car accident cases, DUI accidents often qualify for punitive damages. California Civil Code Section 3294 allows courts to award punitive damages when a defendant acted with malice, oppression, or fraud. Courts have consistently held that choosing to drive drunk constitutes conscious disregard for the safety of others — making punitive damages available in many DUI injury cases. Punitive damages can significantly increase your total recovery beyond your actual medical bills and lost wages. Attorney Anthony Girgis knows how to build the case for punitive damages and present it effectively.

Insurance Issues in DUI Cases

Insurance companies routinely try to minimize payouts even in clear-cut DUI cases. Common tactics include questioning the severity of your injuries, disputing causation, or rushing you into a quick settlement before you understand the full extent of your damages. In some cases the drunk driver may have insufficient insurance coverage. Attorney Anthony Girgis will identify all available sources of compensation including your own uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage.

What Compensation Can You Recover?

Compensation available in DUI accident cases includes medical expenses including emergency care, surgery, and rehabilitation, lost wages and lost earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress and PTSD, property damage, punitive damages, and wrongful death damages if a family member was killed.

What to Do After a DUI Accident

Call 911 immediately and make sure police respond and document the driver’s intoxication. Request that officers conduct sobriety testing on the other driver. Photograph all damage, injuries, and the scene. Collect witness contact information. Seek medical attention immediately. Preserve all evidence including your clothing and any dashcam footage. Do not speak to the other driver’s insurance company without an attorney.

Why Choose Girgis Law Firm?

Girgis Law Firm has recovered millions for accident victims across the San Fernando Valley. Attorney Anthony Girgis has experience pursuing punitive damages against drunk drivers and provides direct access throughout your case. There are no upfront fees and you pay nothing unless we win. We offer a free consultation to review your case and explain your options.

Request a Free Consultation

Call (818) 986-5000 or fill out our contact form for a free, no-obligation consultation with Attorney Anthony Girgis. We represent accident victims throughout Encino and the San Fernando Valley on a contingency fee basis — you pay nothing unless we win.

REQUEST A FREE CONSULTATION

CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

      EXCELLENT  
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   Edgar Ochoa 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a free consultation with Girgis Law Firm and it was a great experience.. Mr. Girgis was kind and patient. He explained my options and made sure I understood everything. I really appreciated how much time and helpful advice he gave me. I would recommend him to anyone who wants honest and straightforward advice.
  
 
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   Chris Mack 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent service!
  
 
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   alexandria scruggs 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Amazing experience working with Anthony! Super hard working and will get the job done:)
  
 
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   Demi S 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Anthony helped me settle for the full amount from my insurance when I was rear ended by an uninsured driver. He made everything so easy and stress free for me during a very stressful time in my life. I highly recommend him!
  
 
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   Jeremy Brown 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Anthony is the GOATI 10/10 would recommend
  
 
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   Todd Lemmonds 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I can’t say enough great things about Girgis Law Firm! Anthony took over my case after I had a frustrating experience with another law firm, and the difference was night and day. From the very beginning, he was attentive, professional, and always available to answer my questions—whether by call or text. Anthony guided me through the entire process with clarity and confidence, keeping me informed every step of the way. His expertise and dedication were evident, and thanks to his hard work, he secured a settlement that was far beyond what I had ever expected. If you’re looking for a lawyer who genuinely cares about his clients and will fight to get you the best results, I highly recommend Anthony and Girgis Law Firm. Thank you for turning a stressful situation into a positive outcome!
  
 
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   Brandon De Lette 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. He was one of the best if not the best. He fought for me all the way through. He was on top of everything. Highly, highly, highly recommend!!!
  
 
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   Anabel Mejia 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Anthony is an excellent attorney, his commitment to his clients and his compassion is a skillset that not many attorneys have. I highly recommend him!
  
 
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   fixer upper 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great law firm. They got me way more then insurance offered. Highly recommend.  Thank you
  
 
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   Daniel G 
 
 
 
 Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Never thought I’d ever need a lawyer in my life but when the time finally came I’m glad I went with this law firm. Anthony was great throughout my process, great with communication, I trusted him to do his profession, and he even made sure I was taken cared of. If I would need a lawyer again I would definitely be calling him back. Also If I could give more than 5 stars then I would. 100/5 stars haha Thank you for everything!