[05-24-2025] Orange County, CA – Man Critically Injured in DUI Hit-And-Run Crash in Dana Point

A Southern California man was critically injured after being struck by a car in a hit-and-run DUI crash in Dana Point on Saturday night, May 24, 2025.

According to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, the incident occurred around 10:00 p.m. while the victim, identified as Charlos B., was loading his truck outside his home in preparation for a family surfing trip to San Onofre State Beach.  A vehicle reportedly struck both the victim and his truck before fleeing the scene.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene shortly after the victim’s wife, who heard the crash, called 911. He was transported to Providence Mission Viejo Hospital, where he remains in a coma with multiple serious injuries.

Authorities later arrested a 34-year-old Rancho Santa Margarita man on suspicion of driving under the influence and felony hit-and-run. The investigation into the crash is ongoing.

Consult With Our DUI Accident Lawyers In Dana Point, CA

DUI accidents can lead to serious injuries and long-lasting consequences. When someone drives under the influence of alcohol or drugs, they put everyone around them at risk. If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI-related crash, it is important to seek legal guidance to help you understand your options.

Our DUI accident lawyers in Dana Point are here to help you protect your rights and explore the next steps. We start by investigating the accident, gathering important evidence, and collaborating with medical professionals when needed. Our goal is to build a strong case that helps you pursue the compensation you may be entitled to.

If you would like to learn more or schedule a free consultation, call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

How To Protect Yourself After A DUI Accident In Dana Point, CA

If you or a loved one were injured in a DUI accident, your safety and well-being are the top priority. Here are the steps you should take when involved in an accident with a drunk or drugged driver:

1. Check For Injuries
   Immediately check yourself and others involved in the accident for any injuries. Look for visible signs like bruises, cuts, or fractures, and be mindful of any pain or discomfort that might indicate internal injuries.
2. Ensure Safety
   Your safety and the safety of others should be your top priority. If the accident occurred in a hazardous location, such as a busy road, move yourself and any injured individuals to a safer area if possible, without worsening any injuries.
3. Report The Accident
   Call 911 or ask a bystander to do so. Law enforcement officers are needed to document the scene. They will conduct sobriety tests, arrest the intoxicated driver if necessary, and file an official report.
4. Seek Prompt Medical Attention
   Emergency responders, including paramedics, will assess your condition and administer first aid. If advised, proceed to the nearest hospital for further treatment. Seeking immediate medical care helps your recovery and provides documentation of your injuries.
5. Gather Information
   While waiting for authorities, collect essential details such as the other driver’s name, contact number, and insurance information. Also, gather contact details of any witnesses, as their statements may support your case.
6. Document The Incident
   Use your phone to take photos and videos of the accident scene. Include images of all vehicle damage, your injuries, and any visible signs of intoxication (e.g., open alcohol containers). This evidence can be critical in building your claim.
7. Call An Experienced Attorney
   Contact a DUI accident lawyer in Dana Point as soon as possible. An attorney will help protect your rights and hold the responsible party accountable.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

In 2020, alcohol-impaired driving was a major factor in traffic fatalities across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s (NHTSA) National Center for Statistics and Analysis, 11,654 deaths were attributed to crashes involving a drunk driver, making up 30% of all traffic-related deaths that year. This represented a 14.3% increase from 2019, when 10,196 such fatalities were recorded.

On average, one person is killed in a drunk driving crash every 45 minutes. The age groups with the highest percentage of impaired drivers in fatal crashes were those aged 21 to 24 and 25 to 34, each accounting for 26% of these incidents.

When looking at vehicle types, motorcyclists had the highest percentage of alcohol impairment in fatal collisions at 27%. They were followed by drivers of passenger cars at 23%, light trucks at 19%, and large trucks at 3%.

Among the 1,093 children aged 14 and under who died in traffic accidents that year, 21% (229 deaths) were connected to alcohol-related crashes. Notably, 67% of all DUI fatalities (7,831 deaths) involved drivers with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.15 g/dL or higher, nearly double the legal limit.

The data also revealed that drunk driving crashes resulting in death were 3.1 times more likely to occur at night than during daylight hours.