[04-15-2023] Marin County, CA – One Killed, Two Others Hospitalized in Solo-Car Crash by DUI Driver Near Highway 1

One person was killed, and two others were hospitalized in a single-car crash caused by a DUI driver on Marshall Petaluma Road, Marin County, on Saturday evening, April 15, 2023.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the Infiniti Q60 Sedan allegedly ran off the road and collided with a tree at around 6:15 p.m., close to Highway 1.

Two 16-year-olds identified as Ramón Z. and Juan M. were passengers. The driver fled, leaving the two passengers in the vehicle. A medical helicopter crew brought both passengers to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital.

The driver, a 21-year-old identified as Joseup M., went back to the crash site, the CHP said. The medics took him to Marin Health Medical Center for major injuries.

On suspicion of driving while intoxicated, police booked the driver into the Marin County Jail.

On Sunday, Romo Z. died in a Santa Rosa hospital. The driver is no longer held in jail, and as of Thursday, no charges have been brought against him.

The authorities have not yet released any further information.

Marin County Drunk Driving Accident Lawyers for Victims

California’s legal system aims to help victims of drunk drivers. If you or a loved one has just been injured or killed and requires help with an insurance claim, contact us, California’s best-drunk driving accident attorneys.

One of our attorneys will review your case at no cost, outlining the following steps and discussing any factors that may influence the settlement offer.

Our trusted Marin County drunk driving accident victim lawyers at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., have extensive experience and recognition advocating for accident victims, with awarded compensation totaling $500 million.

Call (888) 488-1391 now or click the “Do I Have a Case?” on our website to set up a free consultation with one of our attorneys.

What To Do After A DUI Accident

Accidents caused by intoxicated drivers frequently result in legal action from the largest insurance providers. Remember that the insurance company is not working for you. They protect their financial interests, not yours.

The insurance industry invests a lot of money in training staff to prioritize clients’ requirements. Your insurance provider may attempt to contact you following a severe accident caused by a drunk driver. Never agree to coercion. It would help if you didn’t trust them because they act in your best interests. Following a DUI-related accident, here are some tips from our California DUI accident lawyers on negotiating with insurance companies.

• Don’t freak out. Keep a level head, and don’t let your feelings get in the way.
• If you can, park your car safely away from traffic.
• If there are any injuries or significant car damage, dial 911 immediately.
• Get everyone involved in the incident’s names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information.
• Don’t apologize or admit you were wrong, even if you think you were at fault. The police and insurance companies should decide who is at fault.
• Check if you or anyone else needs medical attention.
• Contact your insurance provider right away and explain what happened.
• It’s critical to tell the truth while speaking with insurance adjusters regarding the current circumstances.
• After an accident, keep track of vital documents such as police reports, medical bills, and insurance notices.
• If you have concerns regarding your choices or are facing legal action, speak with an accident attorney for guidance and representation.

Fatal DUI Accident Statistics

In 2019, drunk driving resulted in 10,142 fatalities. There were 949 DUI-related fatalities in California that year or 2.4 per 100,000 residents. The country’s mortality rate was 3.1% per 100,000 people.

Drunk driving is a significant cause of death in California, with a 26.3% fatality rate. The average for the entire country is 28.1%.

Thousands of intoxicated drivers continue to endanger themselves, other motorists, and law enforcement, despite a study demonstrating a decline in drunk driving-related fatalities and accidents during the 1980s.

California’s blood alcohol limit is 0.08 percent. Due to their impaired discernment and reaction time, intoxicated drivers threaten pedestrians and other drivers.