Dayton Hudson, 24 was killed in a Santa Ana motorcycle accident, which officials say, may have involved a suspected drunk driver.
According to a news report in the Orange County Register, the fatal collision occurred early morning on September 21, 2014 on the southbound 55 Freeway near Warner Avenue when a motorcycle crashed into the back of a car.
The motorcycle veered off the freeway and crashed through a
chain-link fence. The driver, later identified as Hudson, was ejected and landed on nearby Ritchey Street.
A good Samaritan saw the motorcyclist on the roadway and stopped to call police. But as he did so he and the motorcyclist were struck by a car driven by Jesus Mendoza Hernandez. Both men were transported to area hospitals. Hudson died from his injuries while the man who tried to help him suffered serious injuries. Hernandez, 41, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Our deepest sympathies go out to the family members and friends of Dayton Hudson. We also wish the injured good Samaritan the very best for a quick and full recovery. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
DUI Collisions
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2011 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were four fatalities and 122 injuries involving alcohol-related collisions in Santa Ana.
In Orange County as a whole, 51 people died and 1,265 were injured due to DUI collisions during the same year.
California Drunk Driving Laws
Under California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a), it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
According to California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a): “It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.”
A driver whose act of driving under the influence results in the death of another will likely face vehicular manslaughter charges under California Penal Code section 191.5 (a).
Liability Issues
In such cases, in addition to facing criminal charges, at-fault drivers can also be held civilly liable for the injuries, damages and losses caused. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.
Families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for medical and funeral expenses, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love and companionship.
An experienced Orange County personal injury lawyer will be able advise injured victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.