Car accidents on Jan.1 often involve drunk drivers

It is not uncommon for some drivers nationwide, including in California, to drive into the New Year under the influence of alcohol. While that might be part of their celebrations, it often ends in car accidents and tragedy for others. An alleged drunk driver is facing multiple charges after he allegedly caused critical injuries to several people.

According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, a 37-year-old man pleaded not guilty to numerous charges, including DUI and fleeing the scene of an accident, in the early morning hours of Jan. 1. The driver is accused of crashing into a vehicle carrying four passengers and an Uber driver soon after fleeing an incident in which he rear-ended another car. His SUV ultimately rolled over after he smashed into the front of a store, after which he tried to flee on foot.

Reportedly, witnesses followed and detained the driver until law enforcement arrived and arrested him for alleged drunk driving. Both drivers and all four passengers were hospitalized — the passengers were reported to be critically injured. The alleged drunk driver was released on bail of $330,000.

Victims of drunk driving car accidents in California may pursue financial relief. Civil lawsuits can be filed against alleged drunk drivers, and the assistance of an experienced personal injury attorney may be sought. The lawyer can help with the establishment of negligence, which will enable the court to determine liability. This could lead to a monetary judgment to cover documented claims for financial losses such as doctors and hospital bills along with lost income. Emotional damages like pain and suffering and loss of life enjoyment may also be included in the claims.

Source: ktla.com, “Alleged DUI Driver Charged in Fairfax Crash That Left 4 Uber Passengers Critically Injured New Year’s Day”, Melissa Pamer, Jan. 4, 2018