California Injury Blog
A woman was killed in a Santa Ana car crash, which officials said, was caused by a suspected DUI driver. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the fatal crash occurred early morning on Feb. 6 at the intersection of Third and Main streets. Police say a Chevy was southbound on Main when it collided into a Kia that was eastbound on Third. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.
Injuries and Fatality
Surviving occupants of both vehicles were taken to an area hospital for treatment. The driver of the Chevy, Martin Diaz, was arrested at the hospital on suspicion of felony DUI and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. It is not clear in which vehicle the deceased woman was traveling. Anyone with information is asked to contact Santa Ana police at 714-245-8223.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of the deceased victim. We also wish the other injured victims the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
California DUI Laws and Victims’ Rights
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 in California Penal Code section 191.5 (a).
While DUI drivers will likely face criminal charges and penalties, their conviction in criminal court will not result in monetary compensation for victims’ tremendous losses. If you have been injured in a DUI crash, you can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. Families that have lost loved ones can 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.
Injured victims and families would be well advised to contact an experienced Orange County DUI victims’ lawyer who has had a successful track record of financially pursuing those responsible and helping ensure that victims and families receive maximum compensation for their losses.
Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2021/02/06/corona-man-arrested-after-suspected-dui-crash-in-santa-ana-leaves-a-woman-dead/