[01-01-2026] San Diego County, CA – Passenger Injured After Hit-and-Run Crash Involving Uber Vehicle in Oceanside

A passenger was injured after a hit-and-run crash involving an Uber vehicle at El Camino Real and Mesa Drive near Canyon Creek in Oceanside late Thursday night, January 1, 2026.

According to the Oceanside Police Department and Oceanside Fire Department, the collision occurred just before midnight and involved two vehicles, one of which was an Uber operating with a passenger inside.

Fire crews arrived to find the Uber, identified as a Toyota Prius, with heavy damage after it was pushed against a guardrail near the creek. Authorities said the Uber driver was able to exit the vehicle and was treated at the scene for minor injuries.

Officials stated that the female passenger seated in the back of the Uber was trapped inside the vehicle with head injuries. She was extricated by rescue crews and transported by air ambulance to a local hospital with injuries described as non-life-threatening.

Police said the male driver of the other vehicle fled the scene on foot into a nearby apartment complex on Garrison Avenue but was later located and taken into custody. Authorities said he was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

The investigation is ongoing.

Contact Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers In Oceanside, CA

Crashes involving suspected impaired driving can create serious safety risks, especially when a driver leaves the scene and a passenger is injured. When a collision involves a rideshare vehicle and a DUI arrest, questions may arise about how the investigation proceeds, how insurance coverage applies, and what steps may be available for those harmed.

Legal guidance may help clarify how California law applies to DUI-related crashes involving passengers and what options may be available. DUI accident victim lawyers in Oceanside can help review available information, explain how injury claims connected to suspected impaired driving are generally evaluated, and assist with communication involving law enforcement reports and insurance matters.

If you or a loved one was injured in a DUI-related crash, you may contact us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form for a free initial consultation.

What To Do After A DUI-Related Crash Involving A Rideshare Vehicle

Being injured as a passenger in a crash involving suspected impaired driving can be overwhelming, particularly when the driver initially leaves the scene. Taking certain steps afterward may help protect important details and support the investigation process.

1. Ensure Law Enforcement And Emergency Services Respond
   Confirm that police and medical responders document the crash and injuries. Official reports created at the scene may help clarify how the collision occurred and note any findings of impairment.
2. Seek Medical Care And Follow Treatment Instructions
   Injuries such as head trauma may require continued monitoring and follow-up care. Medical records can help document treatment and recovery following the crash.
3. Preserve Rideshare And Crash Information
   Retain trip details from the rideshare app, photographs of vehicle damage, and any communications related to the incident. This information may help clarify the circumstances of the collision.
4. Consult With DUI Accident Victim Lawyers
   An attorney may help explain how DUI-related crashes involving rideshare passengers are reviewed, assess investigative findings, and assist with insurance-related questions. Legal guidance can also help clarify options if medical care or related expenses continue.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

Alcohol-impaired driving continues to affect roadway safety across the United States. In 2023, the National Safety Council reported 12,429 deaths tied to crashes involving alcohol. This figure represents a 7.6 percent decrease from the year before and marks the second consecutive year of decline in alcohol-related traffic fatalities.

A traffic crash is classified as alcohol-impaired when at least one driver or motorcyclist involved has a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 grams per deciliter or higher. This level is the legal limit in most states, and driving at or above it significantly increases the risk of serious crashes.