California Injury Blog
Tommy Chu, 44, was killed in a suspected DUI crash in Corona after his vehicle was rear-ended by another driver.
According to a report in The Press-Enterprise, the fatal crash occurred early on the morning of Feb. 12 on the northbound 15 Freeway south of the Weirick Road off-ramp. California Highway Patrol officials said a Mercedes-Benz E-350 was moving north on the freeway when it struck the back of a Honda CRV. Both cars went off the freeway, down an embankment, and across the off-ramp lanes.
Ongoing Investigation
The driver of the Honda, later identified as Chu, died from his injuries. The driver of the Mercedes, identified as 29-year-old Jorge Anival Gomezagustin, has been charged with murder. Police suspect DUI. Any witnesses who saw this accident are urged to call CHP at 951-637-8000. The investigation is ongoing.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of Tommy Chu for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the Mercedes rammed Chu’s Honda from behind and caused the fatal crash. Officials suspect Gomezagustin of driving under the influence and have charged him with murder. Under California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a), it is illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is also against the law to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 percent or higher.
In cases where negligence is a factor, families of deceased DUI victims can seek compensation for damages by filing a wrongful death claim. Victims’ families may be able to seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering, and loss of love, care, and companionship.
Families of victims in such cases would be well advised to contact a knowledgeable Riverside County DUI victims’ lawyer who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.
Source: https://www.pe.com/2022/02/14/driver-arrested-suspected-of-dui-after-fatal-crash-on-15-freeway-in-corona/