A chain-reaction crash on the 210 Freeway in Monrovia resulted in the deaths of two women including a 95-year-old woman identified as Imogene Lea Haley.
According to a report on Pasadena Now, the multi-vehicle collision took place on the afternoon of June 23. California Highway Patrol officials say 49-year-old Humberto Gonzalez was driving a 2001 Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck in the carpool lane when he rear-ended a 2008 Lexus ED 350 that was slowing down due to traffic ahead.
Fatal DUI Collision
The Silverado slammed into the back of the Lexus, pushing the car forward into a 2013 Ford F-150 pickup truck in front of it. The impact then pushed the Ford into two other vehicles ahead. The Lexus was left spinning from the initial impact and several vehicles struck the Lexus before it came to rest. Haley, who was a passenger in the Lexus, was pronounced dead at the scene.
The driver of the Lexus, a woman, was taken to a hospital where she too succumbed to her injuries. Officials have not yet identified her. CHP officials said drugs and/or alcohol appear to be contributing factors in this crash. Gonzalez was arrested on suspicion of DUI. Anyone with information about this crash is asked to contact CHP’s Baldwin Park area office at 626-338-1164.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of Imogene Lea Haley and the other victim for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that Gonzalez, the driver of the 2001 Chevy Silverado, was under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs when he rear-ended the Lexus carrying the two victims and triggered a fatal crash. Under California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a), it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. The same section also states that it is against the law to drive with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher.
In addition to facing criminal charges and penalties, DUI drivers can also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages, and losses caused. Families of deceased victims may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering, and loss of love, care, and companionship.
An experienced Los Angeles car accident lawyer will be able to advise injured victims and families regarding their legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.pasadenanow.com/main/2-women-killed-suspect-accused-of-dui-following-210-freeway-wreck-in-monrovia/