[11-18-2022] Riverside County, CA – One Person Killed, Two Children Injured by DUI Driver near Palm Springs

One person was killed and two children were injured in a two-vehicle collision caused by a DUI driver near Palm Springs on Friday evening, November 18, 2022.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at 7:05 p.m. on Highway 111 in an unincorporated area just south of Overture Drive.

Official reports said a 2018 Chevy Silverado driven by Richard M., a 39-year-old Beaumont resident, was traveling north, while a 2006 GMC Sierra with no gas was parked on the right shoulder of the roadway.

The Silverado veered to the right for unknown reasons and slammed into the rear end of the GMC. It then overturned and landed on its wheels, while the GMC came to rest on the dirt shoulder, also on its wheels. Both cars were severely damaged.

The 45-year-old male driver of the GMC was declared dead on the spot after sustaining major injuries. The passengers, a 12-year-old girl with moderate injuries and a 10-year-old boy with major injuries, were taken to Desert Regional Medical Center and Loma Linda University Medical Center, respectively.

The driver of the Chevy fled the scene and was later located at his residence. He was detained and brought to Indio’s John Benoit Detention Center on suspicion of DUI, vehicular manslaughter, and a hit-and-run causing injuries, with a $95,000 bail.

Fatal DUI Accident Statistics

When a motorist is under the influence of alcohol or drugs, everyone is in grave danger. That’s why every state has strict regulations against DUI (driving under the influence).

Getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol or drugs greatly raises the likelihood of an accident that can result in fatal injuries.

It is estimated by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration that approximately 10,000 people each year perish in car accidents involving a drunk driver. Meanwhile, around 18% of all fatal car accidents involve substance addiction.

Drunk driving is a major contributor to California’s 2,000 annual fatalities and 30,000 annual injuries. Under state law, the definition of driving under the influence varies by age and by kind of vehicle.

Problems with eyesight, making decisions, and responding to traffic are common among drunk drivers. They pose an especially high risk to other motorists and pedestrians on hazardous roads in California.

DUI Accident Lawyers in Palm Springs

You can sue for damages after a DUI accident in California. A claim filed by an attorney on behalf of a family member may allow them to pursue compensation.

Legal representation from our firm, if sought, can be an excellent ally in these trying circumstances. All paperwork and communication with the insurance company can be handled by our attorneys.

During your consultation with our lawyers, they will provide tips on increasing the likelihood of a positive financial settlement.

Our trusted DUI accident attorneys in Palm Springs have extensive experience advocating for accident victims. Our clients have been awarded compensation totaling $750 million.

Contact (888) 488-1391 or click the “Do I Have a Case?” on our website to schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers.