Two suspected DUI’s kill one in wrong-way accident

A wrong-way crash in Carmel Valley on State Route 56 has killed one person, while a second collision occurred shortly after involving the police vehicle on the scene. Both collisions involved drivers suspected of DUI.

The first crash happened at approximately 1:45 a.m. last Saturday on Route 56 near Carmel Country Road. According to the Carmel Highway Patrol, a silver Honda Civic was driving in the wrong direction in the eastbound lanes when it crashed into a blue Mazda CX-5. The passenger of the Honda died at the scene.

While CHP officers were at the scene, the driver of a white Tesla entered the freeway closure and crashed into the back of the parked CHP vehicle. The driver of the Honda and the Tesla were both arrested on suspicion of DUI.

The tragic consequences of impaired driving

According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), in 2016, close to one third of all traffic-related deaths in the United States were due to alcohol impairment. That same year, 17% of traffic-related deaths among children aged 0-14 were due to alcohol impairment.

Drugs other than alcohol, both legal and illegal, are present in about 16% of all motor vehicle crashes, Marijuana users are about 25% more likely to be involved in a crash than those drivers who do not use marijuana, and among nocturnal weekend drivers, 13% have marijuana in their systems.

Seeking compensation after a serious wreck

The victims of a serious traffic accident can see their lives change in an instant. Those with spinal cord or traumatic brain injuries may have to fight insurance companies for an adequate settlement. While the accident takes seconds, recovery can last months or years.

California law recognizes comparative negligence in a personal injury claim, which means that the injured party can sue for damages even if they are partially responsible for the accident. The amount that they may claim is a percentage of the damages attributable to the defendant.

If you have been injured or experienced loss in a serious car accident caused by a drunk driver, it is essential to seek a skilled and attentive personal injury attorney who will gather the evidence necessary to build a claim in your favor so that you may receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.