[08-20-2025] San Diego County, CA – 22-Year-Old Driver Gravely Injured in Suspected DUI Head-On Crash at Cox Road and Mulberry Drive in San Marcos

A 22-year-old man suffered life-threatening injuries in a suspected DUI head-on crash in San Marcos on Wednesday afternoon, August 20, 2025.

According to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Office, the collision occurred shortly before 3:30 p.m. at the intersection of Cox Road and Mulberry Drive.

Deputies said 42-year-old Manuel V. was driving a Nissan when he attempted to pass another vehicle. His minivan collided head-on with an oncoming Lexus sedan driven by the 22-year-old victim.

Paramedics transported the Lexus driver to a hospital with life-threatening trauma. Manuel sustained minor injuries and was treated before being booked into the county jail in Vista on suspicion of DUI, causing great bodily injury, and reckless driving.

Authorities continue to investigate the crash.

Contact Our DUI Accident Victim Lawyers in San Marcos, CA

Collisions involving suspected impaired drivers can result in devastating injuries, leaving victims and families facing hospitalizations, financial strain, and emotional challenges. Head-on collision cases in particular often cause severe harm and long recovery periods. Learning about possible legal avenues may help provide clarity during such a difficult time.

DUI accident victim lawyers in San Marcos can assist victims after a serious crash. This may include reviewing official reports, preserving available evidence, and explaining the process of pursuing a personal injury claim for medical expenses, lost income, and related damages. Families of DUI accident victims in San Diego County may also seek guidance from local attorneys familiar with similar cases.

In some incidents, additional factors such as reckless driving, significant bodily injury, or an intersection accident may further complicate the investigation. Our team can help victims and families understand their options when navigating these challenges.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI accident, call us at (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form for a free initial consultation.

What To Do After A DUI Accident In San Marcos, CA

The aftermath of a DUI crash can feel overwhelming, particularly when it results in life-threatening injuries. Taking certain steps may help protect your rights and preserve important evidence:

1. Call 911 and Report the Crash
   Make sure emergency responders arrive to treat injuries and officially document the collision.
2. Seek Immediate Medical Care
   Even after initial treatment, follow-up care is essential to monitor hidden or delayed conditions.
3. Document The Scene And Injuries
   If it is safe, take photographs of the vehicles, roadway, and visible injuries. These details may help clarify what happened.
4. Gather Witness Information
   Collect names and contact details from anyone who saw the crash. Their accounts may provide valuable insight.
5. Consult DUI Accident Victim Lawyers
   An attorney can explain potential legal options, assist with insurance matters, and help preserve time-sensitive evidence. Early involvement may help ensure your case is handled appropriately.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

DUI Accident Statistics

In 2022, alcohol-impaired crashes resulted in 13,524 fatalities nationwide. California experienced 1,479 deaths from alcohol-impaired traffic accidents during the same year. While the number of alcohol-impaired fatalities decreased slightly by 0.7% across the country from 2021 to 2022, the state of California saw a 1.8% increase in such fatalities over the same period. These figures highlight the ongoing concerns about impaired driving and its impact on public safety, underscoring the need for continued efforts to reduce alcohol-related crashes and fatalities.