A 24-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of causing at least 13 car accidents in San Diego after getting behind the wheel under the influence of marijuana, according to a news report in The San Diego Union-Tribune. The 24-year-old Temecula resident began hitting vehicles the afternoon of March 25, 2010, while driving his SUV north on Bear Valley Parkway in Escondido. Police say the man caused at least seven car crashes, but did not stop for any of them. He then, drove the wrong way causing a number of near-crashes and six additional crashes before he was stopped and arrested. Two people were hospitalized with injuries. The man also got combative and struck an officer as he tried to arrest him. He was booked on suspicion of felony hit-and-run, battery on a peace officer and driving under the influence of marijuana.

My heart goes out to the injured people, who were unsuspecting victims in the wake of this man's destructive behavior. It is indeed fortunate that no one got killed or catastrophically injured in these crashes. These victims will be in my thoughts and prayers.

DUI Collisions

There were two fatalities and 98 injuries due to DUI collisions in Escondido, in 2008, according to California Highway Patrol's traffic accident statistics. Also, countywide in San Diego, 104 fatalities and 2,033 injuries were reported as a result of alcohol-related crashes during the same year.

California Laws

I trust this driver will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law and also held financially responsible for the property damage and serious injuries he has apparently caused to the victims. Thirteen accidents in a one-mile stretch! Driving under the influence is a serious crime under California law. 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." Leaving the scene of an accident or hit-and-run is also a serious crime under California Vehicle Code section 20001 (a).

Claim for Compensation

In such cases, injured victims could seek damages to cover medical expenses, property damage, lost wages, cost of hospitalization and continued treatments. If this driver was uninsured or underinsured, victims can seek compensation through the uninsured/underinsured motorist clause in their own car insurance policy. Victims may also want to seek the counsel of a reputed San Diego personal injury lawyer, who has successfully held negligent and impaired drivers accountable for their actions.

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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