A DUI collision in Modesto injured several people on Highway 99 the night of June 26, 2010. The Modesto Bee reports that the accident occurred when a wrong-way driver suspected to have been under the influence crashed into several vehicles. The wrong-way driver, identified as Fernando Martinez, 30, was arrested on suspicion of felony drunk driving causing injuries. Two drivers – 42-year-old Brian Miller and 36-year-old Victor Mendoza, suffered serious injuries. Totally, seven people were transported to local hospitals. All are expected to survive. An investigation is ongoing.

It is indeed fortunate that no one was fatally injured in this car crash. I truly hope no one sustained any catastrophic injuries and pray that the injured victims recover quickly and completely.

Car Accidents

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 33 fatalities and 814 injuries involving car accidents in the unincorporated areas of Stanislaus County. Countywide, 45 people died and 2,583 were injured as a result of car accidents during the same year.

California Drunk Driving Law

It is illegal to drive with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent or higher. 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."

Liability Issues

The injured victims in this particular case can seek compensation from Martinez, should he be found at fault for this accident. He could also face criminal charges for causing this serious injury crash. A reputed Modesto personal injury lawyer will be able to advise injured victims in such cases about their legal rights and options. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also be able to advise injured victims about how their own car insurance policy applies to a case where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.

What steps can legislators take to crack down on drunk drivers? We would like to hear your comments and suggestions.

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.

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