California Injury Blog
Two people were killed and three others were seriously injured in a car accident, which officials say, was caused by a suspected drunk driver. According to a news report in The Fresno Bee, the fatal car crash occurred the night of September 24, 2010 on Road 208 near Terra Bella. California Highway Patrol officials say 23-year-old Adrian Ramos drove through a stop sign at Avenue 96 and collided with a westbound car driven by 69-year-old Manuel Valencia. Two people in Valencia’s car were killed. Ramos, Valencia and a passenger in Valencia’s car identified as 49-year-old Juan Hernadez, were hospitalized with serious injuries. Ramos was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving.
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My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved these deceased car accident victims. I also wish Valencia and Hernandez the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep these victims and their families in your thoughts and prayers.
Car Accident Statistics
According to CHP’s 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 65 fatalities and 1,724 injuries as a result of car accidents in Tulare County. Of those, 21 deaths and 214 injuries involved DUI collisions.
Violation of Laws
It is a serious crime under California law to drive a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol 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). The news article also states that Ramos ran a stop sign at the intersection, which is a serious violation under California Vehicle Code Section 21802 (a).
Claim for Compensation
In such cases, families of deceased victims as well as the injured victims would be well-advised to contact an experienced Fresno personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. Drunk or negligent drivers who cause serious injuries and fatalities can be held criminally and civilly liable for their actions.
Families of deceased car accident victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for medical and funeral expenses, lost future income, loss of love and companionship, and other damages. Injured victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, loss of wages, hospitalization, surgery, rehabilitation and other related costs. For more information about the dangers of drunk driving, please visit the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) web site at www.madd.org.
In your opinion, how many strikes should DUI offenders get before they lose their driving privilege?
The Bisnar Chase Personal Injury Attorneys is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.