[05-11-2025] Merced County, CA – One Person Killed After Vehicle Crashes Into Canal on Highway 165 Near Santa Fe Grade in Los Banos

One person was killed after crashing into a canal during an attempted passing maneuver on Highway 165 near Santa Fe Grade in Los Banos early Sunday morning, May 11, 2025.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 3:30 a.m. Authorities reported that the driver of one vehicle attempted to pass another car, leading to a collision between the two.

The passing vehicle veered off the roadway and into a canal. The driver was pronounced dead at the scene. The identity of the deceased has not been released pending notification of the next of kin.

The driver of the second vehicle was not seriously injured and is expected to recover.

Investigators believe alcohol may have been a contributing factor in the crash. The incident remains under investigation.

Call Our Dedicated DUI Accident Victim Lawyers In Los Banos, CA

When a driver operates a vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, their careless decision can lead to serious, life-changing consequences for others on the road. Victims of DUI-related accidents often suffer from painful injuries, emotional distress, and unexpected financial hardships. If you were hurt in a crash involving an impaired driver, it is critical to have a legal team that will act quickly and aggressively to protect your rights.

At Arash Law, our DUI accident attorneys in Los Banos are here to guide you through every step of the legal journey. From obtaining police reports and medical documentation to handling negotiations with insurance companies, we manage all aspects of your case so you can prioritize your healing and recovery.

We know how difficult this time can be, which is why we bring a compassionate yet determined approach to every case we handle. With over $750 million recovered for injured clients throughout California, our track record speaks to our commitment to achieving real results for those we represent.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI crash, do not wait to seek legal help. Call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form to schedule your free consultation.

Ways To Protect Yourself After Being A Victim of A DUI Accident

Accidents leave victims shocked and confused about what to do. However, taking specific steps following a DUI accident is crucial to protect your rights and maximize your chances of recovering damages. Our DUI accident victim attorneys highly recommend that you follow these steps:

1. Remain At The Accident Scene. You may move your car to the side of the road to avoid further incidents, but you should not think about leaving. California law requires all individuals involved in a traffic collision to stay, regardless of who’s at fault. Otherwise, you may face hit-and-run charges.
2. Obtain Prompt Medical Care. Call 911 if you or someone else sustains an injury. Receiving immediate medical attention on-site will help prevent complications. Moreover, this will allow you to document the physical damage you incurred, giving insurance companies no chance to downplay your claim.
3. Contact The Nearest Local Police Department. Responding officers will investigate the scene and conduct field sobriety tests. They will also draft an accident report, which can support your case later.
4. Collect Evidence. Take photos and videos of the accident scene, the sustained injuries, and the wrecked vehicles. Furthermore, write down essential information, such as the other parties’ names, addresses, contact numbers, and insurance details. You may also request witnesses to provide testimonies.
5. Inform The Insurance Company. Provide them with the basic details about the incident. However, be cautious of what you share, as they may use your words to their advantage.
6. Consult Arash Law. Our injury lawyers for DUI accident victims will explain your rights and guide you through the process of holding the intoxicated driver accountable. We will also negotiate with insurers, ensuring you get maximum compensation.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) shows that in 2020, 11,654 people were killed in traffic crashes involving at least one alcohol-impaired driver. These fatalities accounted for 30 percent of all traffic-related deaths in the United States that year. The number also marked a 14.3 percent increase compared to 2019, when 10,196 similar deaths were reported.

On average, one person was killed every 45 minutes in an alcohol-related collision during 2020.

Drivers between the ages of 21 and 24, along with those aged 25 to 34, were most often involved in fatal crashes linked to alcohol impairment. Each group represented 26 percent of impaired drivers in these deadly incidents.

Motorcyclists had the highest involvement rate in fatal alcohol-related crashes at 27 percent. Passenger car drivers followed at 23 percent, with light truck drivers at 19 percent and large truck drivers at 3 percent.

Children were not spared from the impact. Of the 1,093 traffic deaths involving children aged 14 and under in 2020, 229 of those fatalities occurred in crashes where an alcohol-impaired driver was involved. This represented 21 percent of all child traffic deaths that year.