Driver Killed in Fatal DUI Crash in Arcadia

A suspected DUI driver may have triggered a crash in Arcadia that killed a motorist in another vehicle and left the passenger seriously injured.

According to a CBS Los Angeles news report, the incident occurred the night of Aug. 6 at the intersection of Baldwin Avenue and Las Tunas Driver. A male motorist was pronounced dead at the scene. The victim’s injured passenger had to be rescued from the vehicle by emergency services and rushed to a local hospital.

Ongoing Investigation

The driver of the second vehicle was uninjured, but police suspected him of being under the influence of alcohol. That driver was taken to an area hospital for further evaluation. Officials said the man was also driving on Las Tunas Drive at a high rate of speed. The suspect lost control of the vehicle, which then crossed over the raised median and collided with the victim’s vehicle in a head-on crash. Arcadia police are urging anyone with information regarding the crash to call them at 626-574-5151.

We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of the deceased victim. We also wish the injured passenger the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.

Laws and Liability Issues

It is against California law to operate a motor vehicle 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).

In such cases, in addition to facing criminal charges and penalties, DUI drivers can also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages, and losses they cause. Injured victims can seek compensation from the at-fault driver for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, permanent injuries, disabilities, and pain and suffering.

Families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for their losses as well. An experienced Los Angeles DUI victims’ lawyer will be able to help injured victims and families who have lost loved ones better understand their legal rights and options.

Source: https://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2021/08/07/motorist-killed-and-passenger-seriously-injured-in-suspected-dui-friday-in-arcadia/