[03-12-2020] Sonora, CA – Two People Injured After a DUI Incident on Cabezut Road

Sonora, CA – A 45-year-old woman identified as Heather Ballou attained severe injuries after a 50-year-old drunk driver crashed into her on March 12 in Sonora on Cabezut Road. 

According to the initial reports, the incident occurred at around 11:37 a.m. on Greenley Road near Cabezut Road. The woman was traveling westbound on Cabezut Road when her vehicle was suddenly hit by a 50-year-old man identified as Fred Jack Westmoreland. 

The man was driving his 2002 Chevrolet Silverado northbound on Greenley Road when he reportedly drove over the double-yellow lines while attempting to turn right on Cabezut Road. 

Both the woman and the suspect attained significant injuries from the incident. The woman was taken to the Adventist Health Sonora. 

Police confirmed that the man was driving while under the influence. He was taken to Tuolumne County Jail for Felony DUI charge.

DUI Crash Investigation is Underway

The authorities are currently investigating the case. Based on the current preliminary reports, it’s apparent that the liability falls on the suspect, Westmoreland, as he was proven to be driving under the influence during the time of the incident. 

Unfortunately, 300,000 people are injured annually due to drunk driving incidents in the U.S. When facing drunk driving incidents like this, it’s vital to have an experienced personal injury attorney specializing in drunk driving accidents to conduct an independent investigation. 

Attorneys will try to determine other potential factors in the case, such as the results of the blood-alcohol content of the suspect. Attorneys will also re-interview important witnesses, review related surveillance footage from the scene of the crash and collect phone and texting records of the liable party. 

Following a significant DUI accident, the intoxicated driver is likely to face serious criminal charges. Under California state law (California Vehicle Code 23513), a DUI that results in an injury to another person can be charged as a felony offense. While the criminal justice system is essential, any criminal case brought against a drunk driver will be a wholly separate legal proceeding from a civil personal injury case. To be apparent, injured victims cannot get access to full and fair financial compensation that they deserve in criminal court.

California Personal Injury Attorney for Drunk Driving Victims

Attaining a serious injury after a drunk driving incident can be overwhelming and has the potential to disrupt all aspects of life, such as family, work, and finances. While the official investigation is on-going, the victim has the right to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. 

When filing a personal injury lawsuit, it’s essential to have an attorney by your side. Attorneys can negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of their clients while serving as a helpful legal guide and ensuring that the victim’s rights and best interests are protected. At Arash Law, we are proud to be aggressive advocates for injured victims. Our law firm does not represent defendants, nor does it serve insurance companies. We use our skills, knowledge, and legal experience to fight for the interests of injured victims.

Following an accident, you and your family need the very best California DUI victim lawyer on your side. When looking for a ‘DUI accident attorney near me,’ you should consider everything from credentials and experience to industry recognition. Of course, nothing is more important than winning the case. Our law firm has a proven record of successful results in personal injury cases. We have recovered more than $500 million for injured victims.We encourage you to review our testimonials from satisfied clients for more information.