California Injury Blog
Edward Salkin, 81, of Corona del Mar, was killed in a Newport Beach pedestrian accident, which officials say, involved a suspected DUI driver.
According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the fatal pedestrian accident occurred on Pacific Coast Highway near Morning Canyon the night of June 12, 2014.
Officials say Salkin was struck by a truck driven by 23-year-old Robert John Greaney of Costa Mesa.
He was arrested on
suspicion of DUI causing bodily injury. Salkin was pronounced dead at the scene. The investigation is still ongoing.
Our deepest sympathies go out to the family members and friends of Edward Salkin for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
OC Crash Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2011 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were no fatalities, but 28 injuries reported as a result of pedestrian accidents in Newport Beach.
In Orange County as a whole, 38 people died and 773 were injured due to pedestrian accidents during the same year. Also 51 fatalities and 1,265 injuries were reported due to DUI collisions countywide in 2011.
California DUI Laws
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver who struck Salkin was under the influence at the time, although all the details of the crash are not available.
According to California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a): “It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.”
A driver whose act of driving under the influence results in the death of another will likely face vehicular manslaughter charges under California Penal Code section 191.5 (a).
Liability Issues
In addition to facing criminal charges and penalties, DUI drivers can also be held financially liable for the injuries, damages and losses they cause.
In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for damages including medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love and companionship.
An experienced Newport Beach personal injury lawyer who has financially pursued DUI drivers with success will be able to advise injured victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.