[11-18-2022] Los Angeles County, CA – Wrong Way Driver Kills One Pedestrian and Injures Another near Olive Street

A wrong-way driver struck two pedestrians crossing the street in a designated crosswalk in downtown Los Angeles on Friday night, November 18, 2022.
The collision occurred before midnight at the 9th Street intersection.

Reports indicate that the pedestrians were hit by a silver Lexus car heading west on 9th St.

The pedestrians landed on the sidewalk after being thrown into the air.

Authorities identified the 39-year-old driver as John Joseph M., driving while intoxicated.

The driver kept going after hitting head-on with another car.

After the second collision, the driver attempted to flee by ramming his car into a passenger car and a tractor-trailer.

Responders arrived at the scene and transported the victims to a nearby hospital.

One of the victims, a 36-year-old man, died from his injuries.

Meanwhile, another 32-year-old man was treated for serious but not life-threatening injuries.

Currently, the suspect is being held on $130,000 bail for DUI.

Fatal DUI Collision Statistics

Based on statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, one person is killed in a DUI accident in the United States every 45 minutes, or about 32 people per day.

It is estimated that 11,654 people were killed in traffic accidents due to drunk driving in 2020, an increase of 14% over 2019.

In 2017, California DUI Management Information System reported that alcohol-related fatalities increased by 5.8% after rising by 6.9% in 2016.

Drunk driving is harmful both to the environment and to other drivers. Approximately 2 billion gallons of fuel are lost yearly due to drunk drivers’ reckless driving.

These statistics show why it’s essential for everyone to keep an eye on their drinking patterns and to never drive after consuming more alcohol than is recommended.

Trusted DUI Accident Lawyers in Los Angeles

If you were hurt in a DUI accident, different emotions might come to mind. You might express anger, confusion, or fear. You might also be curious about what transpires next.

You may sue the negligent driver who hit you for personal damages. Victims of these accidents are financially disadvantaged due to medical costs and lost wages.

There is a slim chance of escaping an accident caused by drunk driving unharmed. California’s injury law would protect you if you sustained injuries in a DUI accident.
Our Los Angeles DUI accident lawyers are dedicated to fighting justice for victims of DUI collisions. When drunk drivers endanger the lives of others, they should be held financially and legally liable.
Our clients depend on us to aggressively pursue maximum settlements so they can afford to pay for life-saving medical care and support their families. To speak with one of our DUI accident lawyers, contact us at (888) 488-1391 or submit our online “Do I Have A Case?” form.