California Injury Blog
Luis V. Cuara, a 49-year-old father of three from Los Angeles, was killed in a car crash in Anaheim, which officials suspect may have been caused by a drunk driver.
According to an NBC Los Angeles news report, the crash occurred early morning on Dec. 5 at the intersection of West Ball Road and South Magnolia Avenue.
Ongoing Investigation
Police say a black Nissan Murano was traveling west on Ball Road and failed to stop at a red light at Magnolia Avenue. The Nissan struck a black 2016 Honda Accord occupied by four men including Cuara, who was sitting in the back seat. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The three other men in the vehicle were taken to an area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
One of the vehicles then struck a Toyota Camry, which had stopped at the red light facing Magnolia Avenue. No one in that car sustained any injuries. The driver of the Nissan Murano, who officials said was an Anaheim resident, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. The investigation is ongoing.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of Luis Cuara for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Our thoughts and prayers are also with the injured victims of this crash. We wish them the best for a speedy and full recovery.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the Nissan was not only under the influence, but also ran the red light before hitting the Honda. California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a) states that it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Also, California Vehicle Code section 21453 (a) states: “A driver facing a circular red signal shall stop at the limit line before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if none, then before entering the intersection, and shall remain stopped until an indication to proceed is shown.”
In such cases where negligence or wrongdoing is a factor, families of deceased victims may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault parties 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 Orange County DUI victims’ lawyer will be able to advise families in such cases regarding their legal rights and help ensure that they receive maximum compensation for their losses.
Source: https://www.nbclosangeles.com/news/local/passenger-killed-in-anaheim-crash-identified/2773103/