A suspected DUI collision has left an elderly man seriously injured in Irvine. The Orange County Register reports that the major injury collision occurred the night of August 10, 2010 at the intersection of East Yale Loop and Briarwood. Police determined that the driver was under the influence of alcohol. But charges have not yet been filed. The victim sustained fractures and head injuries. An investigation is ongoing.

I hope the 64-year-old victim has not suffered catastrophic injuries in this crash. I pray that he recovers quickly and completely from whatever injuries he has suffered.

Drunk Driving Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), one fatality and 68 injuries were reported as a result of DUI collisions in Irvine in 2008. In Orange County as a whole, 62 people died and 1,492 were injured as a result of car accidents involving alcohol or drugs during the same year.

Fault and Liability

Based on this news report, it appears that the district attorney is considering whether to file charges against the motorist. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is illegal under California Vehicle Code section 23152 (a). If a victim dies as a result of injuries suffered in a collision involving a drunk driver, the driver in that case could face vehicular manslaughter charges as well. In addition to criminal charges, drunk drivers can also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses they cause.

Victims in such cases would be well advised to contact an experienced Orange County personal injury lawyer who will analyze all facets of the incident and make sure that the negligent parties are held accountable. A skilled car accident lawyer will also be able to determine whether a dangerous or defective roadway caused the accident. If that was the case, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining that roadway could also be held liable. Under California Government Code section 911.2, any personal injury claim against a governmental entity must be filed within six months of the incident.

Are you in favor of the state requiring Ignition Interlock Devices in the vehicles of first-time DUI offenders? Do you think this will help reduce the number of DUI collisions in California?

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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