[08-26-2023] Sonoma County, CA – 24-Year-Old Male Pedestrian Hospitalized Following DUI Hit-and-Run Collision in Santa Rosa

A 24-year-old male pedestrian was hospitalized after a DUI hit-and-run collision in Santa Rosa on Saturday late afternoon, August 26, 2023.

According to the Santa Rosa Police Department, the incident occurred on Beaver Street and College Avenue at around 5:55 p.m.

Officials said the 24-year-old man was walking his dog across the street when a white SUV hit him and fled the scene. The vehicle was estimated to be going 40 miles per hour when it struck the pedestrian and his dog. First responders located the man lying on the road.

Police said that the dog ran from the scene and was corralled several hours later by a Santa Rosa resident. The victim was brought to a nearby hospital, while the dog was transported to a local veterinary hospital.

The authorities were able to identify the suspect as Eriberto M., a transient who smelled alcohol during the arrest and no further details were released regarding the incident.

The investigation into the collision continues.

Dedicated DUI Accident Victim Lawyers Specializing in Hit-and-Run Accidents in Santa Rosa, CA

In the event that a drunk driver causes you or a loved one injury, you have the right to sue for damages. Loss of wages, medical expenses, and other hardships are often experienced by victims of such crimes.

Our seasoned legal team is committed to supporting and assisting DUI accident victims. If a driver chooses to drive under the influence, they should be held accountable. Getting behind the wheel when intoxicated puts the safety of others at risk.

You can rely on our most trusted Sonoma County DUI accident victim lawyers specializing in hit-and-run accidents at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to help you with the insurance claim or effectively represent you in court proceedings. Our firm has recovered over $750 Million for California clients and is widely acknowledged for its tenacity and success as one of California’s leading personal injury law firms.

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

Accidents caused by drunk driving can be emotionally and physically damaging. What should you do after the incident to ensure your safety and defend your rights? You should follow these steps following a DUI accident:

1. Do Not Admit or Accept the Blame: It’s important to avoid accepting or admitting fault for the accident, as this could harm your case and affect your ability to receive compensation for damages.
2. Do Not Make a Statement: Avoid making any statements about the incident without consulting with an attorney, as these statements could be used against you in legal proceedings.
3. Avoid Early Settlement Negotiations: Avoid settling too early, as this could result in a lower compensation amount. It’s essential to clearly understand the extent of your damages before considering any settlement offers.
4. Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer: Work with an experienced DUI accident lawyer to navigate the legal process and ensure you receive fair compensation for damages. Your attorney can help you understand your legal options and represent you in court if necessary.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

Alcohol and drug-related driving crimes carry serious legal and financial consequences, regardless of whether the drugs are prescription medications, illegal drugs, or marijuana. For first-time offenders, the associated costs can reach up to $10,000; in California, an offense is estimated to cost approximately $13,500.

According to the Office of Traffic Safety, disturbingly, in 2018, 42% of drivers involved in fatal accidents tested positive for drugs, and this percentage continues to rise each year.

In an effort to reduce injury and fatalities due to drunk driving in California, the Office of Traffic Safety and a number of stakeholders are actively raising awareness.