Accident on Colusa Highway Reportedly Caused by Drunk Driver
A head-on crash near Yuba City caused a fatality, and the driver of one of the vehicles was arrested for DUI. The accident happened along State Route 20 (Colusa Highway) and Humphrey Road, west of Yuba City, at about 1:08 a.m., according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The driver of a gray pickup collided with another vehicle, leaving debris strewn across the roadway.
Highway Remains Closed Down For About Four Hours During Accident Investigation
A Sig Alert for the head-on crash was issued at 2:18 a.m., warning motorists that the roadway was blocked in both directions. The Sig Alert remained in effect until 5:11 a.m. A 24-year-old female was arrested and charged with DUI resulting in bodily injury. However, the person injured in the crash died, and the charge was changed to manslaughter while intoxicated.
Officials have identified the decedent as Toni Morgan, 35, of Yuba City. The family of Toni “Yayo” Morgan has set up a GoFundMe page to assist with final resting arrangements.
Woman Charged With Manslaughter DUI in a Head-On Crash Released on Bond
The woman was reportedly released on a $100,000 bond. The CHP is investigating the accident to find out how it occurred.
Why Are Drunk Drivers so Dangerous to Others Sharing the Roadway?
Drunk drivers are among the most dangerous motorists on the road. They put themselves at risk by operating a vehicle while impaired and pose a serious threat to other innocent people sharing the roadway.
There are many reasons why drunk driving is so dangerous. First and foremost, alcohol impairs judgment and reaction time. This means that a drunk driver is more likely to make poor decisions behind the wheel and is less able to respond quickly to changing traffic conditions. In addition, alcohol consumption can cause drowsiness, making it difficult for a driver to stay focused on the road, which can cause a head-on crash.
Recovering Compensation When Your Loved One Is Killed by a Drunk Driver
Losing a loved one at any time is difficult for family members. When the death was caused by a drunk driver in a head-on crash, it can be much worse. Not only are they grief-stricken, but the family is also angry that such a thing happened because of a driver’s negligent actions. While filing a wrongful death claim won’t bring back their loved one, it can help family members obtain justice and avoid the financial repercussions that often accompany a death. Family members may be able to recover the following in damages by filing a wrongful death claim:
- Wages the deceased would have earned until retirement age can be recovered, including their insurance and pension benefits.
- The spouse may recover damages for the loss of consortium, love, and affection they lost.
- Children might recover compensation for the loss of parental guidance and nurture.
- Loss of household assistance may be recoverable.
- In a case involving egregious negligence, such as drunk driving, the family may be able to ask that punitive damages be awarded. This is in addition to the other compensation and is meant to punish the wrongdoer. When you discuss your case with an accident attorney, they can explain whether your family would be able to ask for punitive damages.
Watch YouTube Video: Who Can Recover in a Wrongful Death Claim? The following video explains which family members can file a wrongful death claim for compensation after losing their loved one in an accident.
Yuba City Personal Injury Lawyer
I am Ed Smith, a Yuba City personal injury lawyer. Our experienced lawyers can answer any questions about filing a wrongful death claim if you have lost a loved one in a head-on crash. Call us at (530) 392-9400 for free, friendly advice. You can also contact us at (800) 404-5400 or online.
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Photo attribution: Image by Myriams-Fotos from Pixabay
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