Two people were killed, including a 5-year-old boy, while four others were injured after a two-vehicle head-on collision in Van Nuys, Los Angeles, on Thursday evening, June 29, 2023.
The Los Angeles Police Department stated that the incident occurred at approximately 9:35 p.m. on the 6400 block of N. Woodley Avenue.
According to the report, the collision involved a white Honda Accord traveling north on Woodley Avenue, which veered into the southbound lanes and collided head-on with a gray Honda Civic.
As a result, four adults were injured in the crash: two women aged 21 and 28 and two men aged 22 and 30. They were taken to a hospital in serious condition. The woman in her 60s and the 5-year-old boy who tragically lost their lives were occupants of the Civic.
According to a witness named Marvin O., before the crash, a group of people at the scene had been consuming alcohol and marijuana.
Subsequently, one of the drivers sped off in their car, apparently unaware of the approaching vehicle from the left side, leading to the devastating collision.
The investigation is ongoing.
DUI Accident Victim Lawyers in Los Angeles
Victims who have been involved in accidents caused by drivers who were under the influence of alcohol or drugs have the option to pursue legal recourse to seek compensation. These individuals often encounter various hardships, such as financial burdens from lost wages, medical expenses, and other related challenges.
Our law firm specializes in handling DUI accidents across California, including cases in Los Angeles. We are committed to providing unwavering support and advocacy for the rights of these victims. We firmly believe that drivers who choose to operate vehicles while impaired pose a significant danger to the safety of others on the road, and it is crucial to hold them accountable for the harm they cause.
You can rely on our most trusted Los Angeles DUI accident victim lawyers at Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to effectively represent you in these court proceedings. Our firm has recovered more than $750 Million for California clients.
If you want to speak with one of our lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.
What to Do After a DUI Accident
Going through a DUI accident can be an extremely difficult and emotionally taxing experience. In the aftermath of such an incident, it is crucial to understand the necessary actions to protect your rights and prioritize your overall well-being. This in-depth handbook will provide valuable insights into the essential steps following a DUI accident.
- Ensure Safety: Prioritize safety for yourself and others involved. Move to a safe location, away from traffic or any immediate dangers.
- Seek Medical Attention: Check yourself and others for injuries and immediately seek medical attention for anyone who needs it. Even if injuries seem minor, getting a thorough medical evaluation is essential.
- Report the Accident: Contact local law enforcement to report the DUI accident. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the incident.
- Gather Information: Collect important details about the accident, including the other driver’s contact information, insurance details, and license plate number. Also, gather contact information from any witnesses present at the scene.
- Document the Scene: Take photos or videos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, injuries, road conditions, and other relevant factors. This documentation can be valuable for insurance claims and legal purposes.
- Refrain from Admissions or Statements: Avoid admitting fault or making any statements about the accident without consulting an attorney. Announcements made at the scene could be used against you later.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Inform your insurance company about the accident, providing them with accurate and truthful information. Follow their instructions regarding filing a claim.
- Consult a California DUI Accident Victim Lawyer: Seek legal advice from an experienced DUI accident lawyer specializing in personal injury cases. They can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you seek appropriate compensation for your damages.
- Preserve Evidence: Keep copies of medical records, accident reports, insurance correspondence, and any other relevant documents related to the accident. These will be important for your case.
- Follow Medical Treatment: Adhere to all prescribed medical treatments and attend follow-up appointments. Document your medical expenses and keep records of any lost wages or other financial losses resulting from the accident.
Fatal DUI Accident Statistics
Driving a vehicle while under the influence of drugs, whether they are legally prescribed medications, illicit substances, or marijuana, is considered a criminal act that carries significant legal and financial consequences.
For first-time offenders, the associated expenses can amount to as much as $10,000, with estimated costs in California reaching approximately $13,500. Disturbingly, statistics from 2018 indicate that 42% of drivers involved in fatal accidents tested positive for drugs, and this percentage continues to increase each year.
To address the issue of traffic fatalities and injuries on California’s roads, the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and various stakeholders are actively collaborating to raise awareness about the dangers associated with drug-impaired driving and work towards their mitigation.