Luis Miguel Cruz, 28, arrested on charges of killing family members Julia Flores, 20, Brian Flores, 4, and Elena Flores, 47, while driving under the influence in Turlock, California

Luis Miguel Cruz is facing hit-and-run and vehicular manslaughter charges. The victims have been identified as 20-year-old Julia Flores, her 4-year-old son, Brian, and her 47-year-old mother-in-law, Elena Flores.

How can a lawyer help with an auto accident claim? First, having a lawyer on your side levels the playing field.  The person who caused the accident is required to immediately turn the case over to his or her insurance company.  The insurance company uses adjusters and lawyers who are specifically trained to deny or reduce your claim.  This may include denying compensation to family members who are entitled to receive benefits for loss of companionship. Learn more here about what a lawyer does in auto accident cases.