A 41-year-old Oxnard woman was killed and a 14-year-old boy was severely injured in a car accident, which officials said, was caused by a woman who was driving under the influence. According to a KTLA news report, the crash took place on the morning of June 6th at the intersection of Rice Avenue and Channel Islands Boulevard. Police say a 2017 Nissan Rogue was stopped at a red traffic signal along northbound Rice Avenue just before the wreck. A 14-year-old boy was driving it with a 41-year-old woman riding as a passenger.
DUI Suspected
The Lexus rear-ended the Nissan. After the crash, the Nissan came to a rest in the center median and the Lexus went off the road. Both vehicles sustained major damage in the crash officials said. The passenger in the Nissan was pronounced dead. The driver of the Lexus was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. It was unclear why a person so young was driving the Nissan. Anyone who witnessed this fatal crash or has information is urged to contact the California Highway Patrol’s Ventura-area office at 805-662-2640.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased and wish the injured victim the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Laws and Liability Issues
Under California law, it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. 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.” Under the same section, it is also against the law to drive with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08% or higher.
In such cases, the at-fault driver, in addition to facing criminal charges and penalties, can also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses caused. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
Families that have lost loved ones in such cases may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love, care and companionship. An experienced Southern California car accident lawyer will be able to help injured victims and their families better understand their legal rights and options.
Source: https://ktla.com/news/oxnard-woman-killed-lake-forest-woman-suspected-of-dui-following-ventura-county-crash/