A 21-year-old woman was fatally injured when the car she was riding in veered off eastbound State Route 54, struck a road sign, and crashed down an embankment in Chula Vista early Wednesday morning, September 10, 2025.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred shortly before 1:00 a.m. just east of Highland Avenue.
Paramedics transported the woman to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced dead. Her identity has not been released pending family notification.
The driver, a 20-year-old man, was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. His name was not immediately available.
Authorities continue to investigate the incident.
Contact Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers In Chula Vista, CA
DUI crashes can result in serious injuries or fatalities, leaving victims and their families facing physical, emotional, and financial challenges.
DUI accident victim lawyers in Chula Vista can help you explore your options following a fatal car accident caused by an impaired driver. Legal support may involve reviewing official reports, assisting with insurance claims, and explaining potential avenues for pursuing compensation related to medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. Speaking with a traffic accident lawyer early may provide clarity on your legal options while you focus on recovery.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI-related accident, call our car accident lawyers in Chula Vista at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our โDo I Have a Case?โ form for a free initial consultation.
What To Do After A DUI Accident In Chula Vista, CA
Collisions caused by impaired drivers can lead to serious injuries or fatalities. Taking these steps afterward may help protect your legal rights and preserve important evidence.
- Call 911 And Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Contact emergency services immediately to ensure that anyone injured receives prompt medical evaluation, even if injuries appear minor. - Document The Scene And Vehicles
If safe, take photographs of the accident scene, vehicles involved, and any visible injuries or property damage. Notes about road conditions, signage, or the driverโs behavior can also be useful. - Collect Witness Information
Speak with any witnesses and gather their names and contact details. Their statements can provide additional clarity for investigations or claims. - Consult DUI Accident Victim Lawyers
A lawyer can help you understand your legal options, assist with insurance communications, and ensure key evidence is preserved. Early legal guidance can help protect your rights and clarify next steps.
DUI Accident Statistics
Driving under the influence of alcohol remains a significant safety issue on U.S. roads. In 2023, the National Safety Council reported 12,429 alcohol-related fatalities, representing a 7.6 percent decrease from the previous year. This marks the second consecutive year of decline, signaling a positive trend in efforts to combat impaired driving.
An accident is classified as alcohol-impaired when at least one driver or motorcyclist involved has a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08 grams per deciliter or higher. This level is the legal limit in most states, and surpassing it makes driving not only hazardous but illegal.