[12-04-2022] Orange County, CA – Drunk Driver Struck Patrol Car, Leaving Officer Injured in Garden Grove

A patrol officer was injured after a drunk driver struck his patrol car in Garden Grove Sunday night, December 4, 2022.

Authorities confirmed that the crash transpired around 8:45 p.m. on the 22 Freeway westbound.

The officer stopped on the highway to assist a vehicle with mechanical problems when the Chevrolet Tahoe driver rear-ended his patrol car along with a white Porsche Cayenne.

When responders arrived at the scene, the officer was trapped inside. He was extricated from the vehicle using the jaws of life.

The victim was transported to the University of California, Irvine Medical Center, where he was treated for moderate injuries.

Meanwhile, a boy and girl who were passengers in the Tahoe escaped injury and were later released to family members.

The 36-year-old Tahoe driver, Krystal R., was detained on suspicion of DUI and child endangerment.

The Garden Grove 22 Freeway was closed for nearly an hour while authorities investigated and cleared the roadway.

Anyone with information on this crash is encouraged to contact the CHP at 714-892-4426.

DUI Crash Statistics

NHTSA reports that around 32 people are killed in DUI accidents in the United States every day or about one every 45 minutes.

Approximately 11,654 persons died in traffic accidents caused by drunk driving in 2020, a 14% rise over 2019.

Based on data provided by California’s DUI Management Information System, alcohol-related fatalities increased by 5.8% in 2017 after rising by 6.9% in 2016.

Drunk driving is dangerous to both the environment and other drivers. Drunk drivers’ careless driving wastes around 2 billion gallons of fuel annually.

In light of these statistics, it is crucial for everyone to monitor their drinking behavior and avoid driving after consuming more alcohol than is recommended.

Trusted Lawyers for DUI Accident Victims in Garden Grove

You could experience a range of emotions after a DUI-related collision. Your feelings might include anger, confusion, and fear. You might also be curious to see what happens next.

A negligent driver might be responsible for personal injury damages if they contributed to the injury. Medical bills and lost pay are the primary causes of financial hardship caused by these accidents.

The chances of surviving drunk driving accidents uninjured are very slim. The state’s injury law protects those injured in car accidents.

Our DUI accident lawyers for victims in Garden Grove are committed to seeking justice for their clients in these situations. Drunk drivers jeopardize other lives and should be held legally and financially accountable.

We strive to maximize settlements so our clients can afford life-saving medical care and provide for their families. For a free consultation with a DUI accident lawyer, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have A Case?” form online.