California Injury Blog
Five people were injured in a Los Angeles car accident, which officials say, was caused by a driver who was under the influence. According to a KTLA news report, the injury crash occurred the afternoon of Feb. 22 at First and Chicago streets in Boyle Heights. Officials say the driver, Joshua Garcia, attempted to flee after the crash, but was arrested soon afterward.
Injuries Sustained by Victims
Police say Garcia’s Toyota Camry collided with a Toyota Sienna minivan causing the minivan to run off the roadway. The van then hit two women who were waiting to cross the roadway as well as a bus shelter next to a park nearby. The Camry then continued north on Chicago Street, and struck a bicyclist. Investigators said five people in all were injured – three men and two women ranging in age from 20 to 61.
The drivers of both vehicles were among those who were injured. All victims were transported to a local hospital with injuries ranging from moderate to severe. They were all said to be in stable condition. Garcia attempted to flee on foot, but was detained by good Samaritans, officials said.
Police said they found open beverages including beer cans in the vehicle and that’s part of the investigation. They also said Garcia smelled of alcohol when he was arrested soon after the crash. He was booked on suspicion of drunk driving and hit and run. Anyone who saw the crash is asked to contact LAPD at 213-833-3713.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured victims of this Los Angeles car accident. We wish them the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver, Joshua Garcia, was not only under the influence at the time of the crash and may have caused this accident, but also attempted to run away from the scene of the accident. Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is illegal under California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a) and leaving the scene of an injury crash is prohibited under California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a).
In addition to facing criminal charges, drivers in such cases can also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses caused. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitative treatment, permanent injuries, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced Los Angeles DUI victims’ lawyer will be able to fight for their rights and help secure maximum compensation for their losses.
Source: https://ktla.com/2019/02/22/driver-crashes-into-pedestrians-at-boyle-heights-bus-stop/