[08-06-2023] Kings County, CA – One Woman Killed, Another Two Injured After Two-Vehicle DUI Collision in Hanford

A woman was killed, while another two were injured after a collision involving two vehicles caused by a DUI driver in Hanford on Sunday morning, August 6, 2023.

The California Highway Patrol responded to the accident around 11:30 a.m. on Highway 198, just west of 27th Avenue.

A 2000 Chevrolet Silverado traveled west on Highway 198 between 70 and 80 miles per hour. Meanwhile, a 1998 Chevrolet S-10 traveled approximately 55 miles per hour eastbound on Highway 198.

The first car’s driver was intoxicated. He swerved to the left and collided with the S-10 as he drove westbound in the eastbound lanes, causing the collision.

The Chevrolet S-10 driver, identified as 82-year-old Maria A., died at the scene. Her passenger, 53-year-old Julia M., suffered minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

The Chevrolet Silverado driver, identified as 65-year-old Mariano M., was arrested and transported to a local trauma hospital via Skylife.

All of them were residents of Huron, and no additional details regarding the crash were released.

While the investigation continues, anyone with information on this case is encouraged to contact the authorities.

DUI Accident Victim Lawyers in Hanford, Kings County

Victims can seek compensation through legal action if a DUI driver causes a car accident. Victims often experience financial hardships due to lost income, medical expenses, or other issues.

Our firm’s DUI accident victim lawyers are committed to advocating for and assisting DUI accident victims. Motor vehicle operators must be held liable for their actions if they choose to operate a vehicle. To hold drunk drivers accountable for their reckless behavior, they must pay for the damages they cause.

You can rely on our most trusted Kings County drunk driving accident victim lawyers at Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to effectively represent you in these court proceedings. Our firm has recovered more than $750 Million for California clients.

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

Being involved in a DUI tragedy can be emotionally and physically traumatizing. After the incident, what can you do to ensure your safety and future well-being? Below are the steps you should take after an accident caused by DUI.

1. Never 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. Only Sign Documents: Consult with an attorney to protect your rights before signing any documents.
5. Work Through Your California drunk driving accident victim 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

Fatal DUI Accident Statistics

The consequences of operating a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs, whether prescription medications, illegal substances, or marijuana, can be severe. 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.

As part of the Office of Traffic Safety’s efforts to reduce injury and death on California’s roads, various stakeholders are actively raising awareness about the dangers of drugged driving.