A suspected drunk driver from Santa Ana ran a red light in Lake Elsinore and caused a crash that left one person dead and two others injured on the night of Aug. 13.
According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the driver fled the scene of the fatal crash before being arrested. The collision occurred at the intersection of Lake Street and Grand Avenue. Officials said the suspect’s SUV was going north when it struck a sedan that was facing south and turning east onto Lakeshore Drive.
Charges Filed Against Driver After Hit-and-Run Crash in Lake Elsinore
The driver whose car was struck died from injuries sustained. Two passengers in that car were transported to an area hospital with major injuries, but are expected to survive. The driver of the SUV was identified as 32-year-old Margarita Rosales. She was booked on suspicion of manslaughter, DUI, and two counts of felony hit and run. The investigation is ongoing.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of the deceased victim of this tragic crash. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver who caused the crash may not only have been under the influence but also ran a red light at the intersection and fled the scene of a fatal crash. It is illegal under California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a) to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. It is also against the law to fail to stop for a red light at an intersection and leave the scene of an injury or fatal crash.
In such cases, in addition to facing criminal charges and penalties, at-fault drivers can also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages, and losses they cause. Injured victims in such cases can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and emotional distress.
Families that have lost loved ones may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, and loss of love, care, and companionship. An experienced Riverside personal injury lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2022/08/14/santa-ana-driver-suspected-of-dui-in-fatal-lake-elsinore-hit-and-run/