A 54-year-old man from Fawnskin died following a suspected DUI crash between a motorcycle and an SUV alongside Big Bear Lake on Monday evening, August 18, 2025.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision occurred around 6:00 p.m. along Big Bear Boulevard, just east of Rim of the World Scenic Byway and Bear Valley Dam. The incident involved a Harley-Davidson motorcycle and a small SUV.
The motorcyclist, identified as William B. by the San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office, was taken to a hospital but succumbed to his injuries about an hour later.
Authorities reported that the woman driving the SUV was arrested on suspicion of intoxicated driving. Her identity has not yet been released.
The investigation into the collision continues.
Contact Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers in Big Bear Lake, CA
Crashes involving suspected impaired drivers often result in devastating consequences, including fatalities. Families left behind may face sudden loss, financial strain, and many unanswered questions about what steps to take next. Learning about possible legal avenues may help provide direction during such a difficult time.
DUI accident victim lawyers in Big Bear Lake can assist families after a fatal collision. This may include reviewing official reports, preserving available evidence, and explaining the process of pursuing a wrongful death claim depending on the circumstances. Early legal guidance may help reduce confusion and provide clarity in the aftermath.
If you have lost a loved one in a DUI accident, call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form for a free initial consultation.
What To Do After A Fatal DUI Accident in Big Bear Lake, CA
The aftermath of a DUI crash can feel overwhelming, especially when it results in the loss of life. Taking certain steps may help protect your rights and preserve important information:
- Collect Important Records
Gather medical documentation, the death certificate, and any reports from first responders or the coroner’s office. These may be necessary for insurance or legal matters. - Preserve Evidence
Keep clothing, personal belongings, and other items from the crash in their current condition. These materials may hold evidentiary value. - Be Cautious With Insurance Discussions
Avoid making statements or accepting early settlement offers until you fully understand your rights. - Consult DUI Accident Victim Lawyers
An attorney can explain potential legal options, assist with insurance communications, and help ensure that time-sensitive evidence is preserved. Early involvement may help ensure the case is handled properly.
DUI Accident Statistics
In 2020, crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers caused 11,654 deaths in the United States. This means that about 30 percent of all traffic-related deaths that year were connected to alcohol. Compared to 2019, this number increased by over 14 percent. On average, 32 people die every day in alcohol-related crashes. That works out to one death every 45 minutes.
The financial toll of these crashes was also very high. In total, the estimated cost of crash deaths involving alcohol-impaired drivers reached about $123.3 billion in 2020. These costs included medical bills and the estimated value of the lives lost.
Although it is difficult to know exactly how many crashes are caused by drug-impaired driving each year, some studies have provided helpful insights. One study looked at 4,243 drivers who were seriously injured and treated at trauma centers between September 2019 and July 2021. More than half of these drivers tested positive for alcohol and/or drugs. The substances found most often included alcohol, marijuana, opioids, stimulants, and sedatives.