Eight Injured in Modesto DUI Crash
Eight people were injured in a DUI crash near Modesto on the afternoon of March 31, 2019. The incident occurred at approximately 1:30 p.m. at Vivian Road and West Grayson Road. A driver of a 2008 Saturn Outlook was traveling westbound along West Grayson Road, approaching the intersection. A motorist of a 1994 Mazda B4000 was heading north along Vivian Road and reportedly failed to stop at the stop sign, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The driver’s side of the Saturn SUV was struck by the front of the Mazda pickup truck. The impact of the collision propelled the Saturn off the roadway and into metal fencing while the Mazda overturned and came to a rest along the road. Two parties, the Saturn driver and passenger of the Mazda, were both seriously injured in the crash while the other six suffered minor injuries. All eight parties were transported to hospitals by two helicopters and four ambulances. Officials have not yet released an update regarding the conditions of those injured.
Accident Investigation
The exact cause of the auto accident is unknown due to a pending investigation. However, the CHP reported that the car wreck was believed to have been caused by DUI. One driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol. It is unknown whether the motorist will be facing other charges for the incident.
Proving Fault in an Accident
A burden of proof in a personal injury case must show that the negligent driver is responsible for the harm suffered by the injured party. This is usually demonstrated by a preponderance of evidence such as traffic collision reports, witness statements, medical bills and records, and photographs of the accident scene. Some of the different forms of negligence that can lead to a car accident include:
- Defective Vehicle Parts and Equipment: If a manufacturer sells a car or vehicle part that is faulty, the manufacturer may be to blame for a car wreck caused by a vehicle defect. Some commonly defective vehicle components include airbags, tires, and brakes. Moreover, a manufacturer can also be held liable for poor roof crush resistance in a rollover accident.
- Distracted Driving: This is considered any task that diverts a driver’s attention from the road. Some common forms of distracted driving include personal grooming, texting or calling on a cell phone, eating or drinking, and more.
- Drunk Driving: The effects of alcohol vary upon the amount of alcohol a person consumes. It also depends on whether the motorist is impaired by a combination of alcoholic beverages and drugs. Some of these effects include limited coordination, impaired vision, delayed reaction times, and reduced ability to control a vehicle.
- Reckless Driving: Traffic in California can be frustrating and even push some drivers to the extreme. This includes dangerous driving behaviors like weaving in and out of traffic, excessive speeding, and tailgating.
- Road Defects: A government entity has the duty to keep the roadway safe for drivers through regular inspection, maintenance, and repair. If a pothole or other dangerous hazard on the road contributes to a collision, the government could be held financially responsible due to its negligence.
- Traffic Law Violations: These often lead to accidents on the road. Common traffic violations include failure to yield, running stop signs or traffic lights, and speeding.
Compensation for Personal Injury Damages
A person who suffers serious injuries in a car accident through the negligence of another should not be left with the expenses associated with that trauma. When a collision was caused by a motorist with a lack of care for others or the negligent actions of an impaired driver, the injured party may be able to seek compensation for their damages. An attorney with experience in handling these types of cases can help communicate effectively with insurance companies for you to reach a favorable negotiation. If all attempts fail at a fair settlement, the matter can be taken to civil court.
Modesto Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Modesto personal injury lawyer. Drunk driving crashes can result in devastating consequences for those involved. If you or a loved one have been harmed in an accident caused by a drunk driver, you have the right to seek compensation for your damages. If you need free and friendly advice about what steps to take in this situation, please call me at (209) 227-1931 in the Modesto area or toll-free at (800) 404-5400.
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