California Injury Blog
A woman was killed in an Irvine car accident involving a driver who was suspected of driving drunk and then fleeing the scene of the collision. According to a City News Service report, police responded to a crash the night of Aug. 22 at the intersection of Main Street and Culver Drive. Witnesses reported that a black Hyundai Elantra collided with a white Ford F-150 driven by a man who fled the scene.
Charges Against Driver
Paramedics rushed a 20-year-old woman from the passenger seat of the Hyundai to a regional trauma center where she died from her injuries. The pickup was stopped by officers a short distance away from the crash. Its driver, Antonio Calixto Navarette, 40, of San Clemente, was arrested on suspicion of hit-and-run, DUI and murder. Irvine police are asking anyone with information about this crash to call them at 714-724-7000.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of this deceased victim for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Violation of Laws
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the pickup truck was not only under the influence of alcohol when the crash occurred, but he also left the scene of a major injury crash. Under California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a), it is illegal to operate a motor vehicle while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. It is also against the law to drive a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher.
California Vehicle Code Section 20001(a) states that motorists should stop right away and remain at the scene of an injury or fatal crash. They are also required to exchange information with other parties and most importantly, render aid to the injured victims. This might be something as simple as calling 911 so the victim can receive prompt medical assistance, which could make the difference between life and death.
Holding Wrongdoers Accountable
In such cases where negligence or wrongdoing is a factor, families of deceased crash victims may be able to file a wrongful death lawsuit against the at-fault parties seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, the victim’s pain and suffering, and loss of love, care and companionship. An experienced Irvine car accident lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families in such cases regarding their legal rights and options.
Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2020/08/23/1-killed-in-irvine-crash-man-arrested-on-suspicion-of-dui-hit-and-run-and-murder/