[07-24-2023] Ventura County, CA – Lancaster Residents Seriously Injured in Highway 126 DUI Head-On Collision

Two Lancaster residents were severely injured after a head-on collision on Highway 126 in Ventura County on Monday afternoon, July 24, 2023.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision was reported just before 2:00 p.m. east of Pyle Road, between Fillmore and Santa Paula.

An Ojai man was driving a 2018 Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck heading eastbound when he veered into oncoming traffic, colliding with a 2006 Chevrolet pickup truck traveling westbound.

The Lancaster man, aged 43, was driving the Chevrolet with a 49-year-old woman as his passenger. Following the head-on collision, the woman was trapped in the vehicle, requiring Ventura County firefighters to extricate her from the truck.

Both Lancaster residents sustained major injuries and were taken to Ventura County Medical Center. The Ojai driver suffered minor injuries and was arrested on suspicion of DUI.

Additionally, a third vehicle, a Dodge ProMaster cargo van traveling westbound, was struck by debris from the initial collision. The van’s driver was unharmed, while the passenger sustained minor injuries. Both individuals are from Ventura.

CHP officials stated that drug-related impairment was believed to be a factor in the crash. The incident is still under investigation by the authorities.

DUI Accident Victim Lawyers in Ventura County

Victims who have experienced accidents caused by drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs can seek legal recourse for compensation. These individuals often face numerous challenges, including financial burdens from lost wages, medical expenses, and other related difficulties.

Our law firm handles DUI accident cases across California, including Ventura County. We are dedicated to offering unwavering support and strong advocacy for the rights of these victims. We firmly believe that drivers who decide to operate vehicles while impaired pose a considerable danger to the safety of others on the road. It is essential to hold such individuals accountable for the harm they cause.

You can rely on our most trusted Ventura County drunk driving 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

Experiencing a DUI accident can be an incredibly challenging and emotionally draining ordeal. In the aftermath of such an incident, it is vital to grasp the necessary measures to safeguard your rights and prioritize your overall welfare.

This section offers valuable knowledge and guidance on the crucial 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 essential 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.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

Engaging in driving while under the influence of drugs, whether they are legally prescribed medications, illicit substances, or marijuana, is considered a criminal offense and comes with significant legal and financial repercussions.

For first-time offenders, the expenses associated with this offense can reach up to $10,000, and in California, the estimated costs can go as high as approximately $13,500. Alarming statistics from 2018 reveal that 42% of drivers involved in fatal accidents tested positive for drugs, and this percentage continues to rise annually.

The Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) and various stakeholders are working together to raise awareness about the dangers of drug-impaired driving. Their collaborative efforts aim to mitigate these risks, reduce traffic fatalities and injuries, and ensure safer roads throughout California.