Two individuals complained of pain due to a three-vehicle crash caused by a drunk driver in Petaluma on Saturday, July 29, 2023.
According to the Petaluma Police Department, the incident occurred near Lakeville Highway and Baywood Drive at approximately 11:23 p.m.
Miguel L., 28, was accused of driving under the influence and colliding with two vehicles. The initial collision occurred at the intersection of Marina Avenue and Lakeville Highway, while the second occurred at Lakeville Highway and Baywood Drive.
The two drivers struck by Miguel both complained of pain following their respective collisions. It remained unclear whether they were sent to the hospital.
During the field sobriety tests, the suspect exhibited “objective signs” of alcohol intoxication and impairment. The suspect’s blood alcohol concentration was approximately three times the legal limit.
Miguel was arrested and transported to the Sonoma County Jail, while the identities of the other two drivers were undisclosed while the investigation continued.
Award-Winning Drunk Driving Accident Victim Lawyers in Petaluma, Sonoma County
After a DUI accident, it’s normal to feel irrational feelings like fear, anger, or distrust. The at-fault driver is responsible for covering the victim’s medical expenses following an accident. Injury victims may experience significant financial difficulty due to medical costs and lost pay.
Although it may be difficult to stop all drunk driving accidents, California law protects those injured in DUI accidents.
In a free consultation with our legal team, we will evaluate your case, discuss the next steps, and examine anything affecting the settlement you can receive.
Our award-winning Sonoma County drunk driving accident victim lawyers at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., will effectively represent you in these court proceedings. One of the biggest in California, our firm has recovered more than $500 Million for clients.
To schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers, call (888) 488-1391 or complete our “Do I Have a Case?” form.
What Should You Do After a DUI Accident?
Drunk drivers frequently cause accidents that result in bodily injury and logistical, material, and psychological problems. After an accident, you must exercise extra caution to protect yourself and your loved ones. This checklist will help you handle its aftermath:
- Get medical help immediately. Also, check the condition of the other people involved.
- Inform the police about the collision. A police investigation will be conducted to determine whether the driver was under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
- Get essential details such as the driver’s name, contact details, license plate number, and insurance information.
- Take pictures of the accident scene, including the damaged vehicles and the victims’ injuries.
- Report the accident to your insurance company and provide the necessary information regarding the accident.
- Speak with our DUI accident lawyers. They’ll defend your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
DUI Accident Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk driving accidents cause the deaths of 32 people daily or one every 45 minutes in the US. In 2020, drunk drivers caused 11,654 traffic deaths, an increase of 14% from the previous year.
A study by the California DUI Management Information System found that between 2016 and 2017, there were 5.8% more fatal alcohol-related traffic accidents. Intoxicated drivers put everyone on the road at risk. Every year, drunk drivers waste approximately 2 billion gallons of fuel.
In California, 949 people died in 2019 due to drunk driving. This is 2.4 per 100,000 people, while the national rate is 3.1 per 100,000. Drunk driving was a factor in 28.1% of road fatalities in the US and 26.3% in California in 2014.