California Injury Blog
A man was injured in a Costa Mesa pedestrian accident, which officials said, involved a suspected drunk driver who left the scene of the crash. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the incident occurred early morning on June 18 at the corner of West 19th Street and Newport Boulevard. The driver did not stop or remain at the scene of the accident.
A witness followed the suspect’s vehicle to Dyer Road at the 55 Freeway where California Highway Patrol officials stopped and arrested the suspect, 25-year-old Andrew Jacob Luevano, on suspicion of felony DUI and hit and run causing injuries. The victim, who suffered non-life-threatening injuries, was transported to an area trauma center for treatment. The investigation is ongoing.
Our thoughts and prayers are with the injured victim of this crash. We wish him the very best for a free and complete recovery.
Crash Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2013 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), three fatalities and 79 injuries were reported as a result of DUI collisions in the city of Costa Mesa. In Orange County as a whole, 60 people died and 1,235 were injured as a result of DUI crashes during the same year. Also, countywide, 52 fatalities and 784 injuries were reported due to pedestrian accidents in 2013.
Violation of Several Laws
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the vehicle may not only have operated under the influence and failed to yield the right of way to a pedestrian, but also left the scene of an injury collision. California Vehicle Code 23152 (a) makes it illegal for drivers to operate while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Also, California Vehicle Code 20001 (a) requires all motorists to stop and remain at the scene of an injury or fatal collision, exchange pertinent information with other parties involved and obtain help for those who have been injured.
Justice for Injured Victims
If you have been injured as a result of someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing, it is important to understand that you have legal rights. In a DUI crash, in addition to facing criminal charges and penalties, a driver can also be held financially responsible for the injuries and damages caused. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress. An experienced Costa Mesa personal injury lawyer will be able to advise injured victims regarding their legal rights and options.