[11-29-2020] Merced County, CA – One Man Killed After a Fatal DUI Crash in Winton

A 34-year-old woman identified as Candice McCarty was injured while an unidentified 33-year-old Atwater man was killed after the car they were riding was struck by a DUI driver near Winton on Sunday night, November 29. 

The fatal crash occurred at approximately 9:00 p.m. in the area of Walnut Avenue and Central Avenue. A 2008 Lexus IS 350 was driving eastbound on Walnut Avenue approaching Central Avenue when, for unclear reasons, the driver lost control and veered onto the opposite lane. 

The Lexus then collided head-on with Honda Civic traveling westbound on Walnut Avenue. The occupants of the Civic were then trapped in the vehicle as a result of the crash. Honda’s engine compartment caught fire. 

McCarty, who was an occupant of the Honda, was pulled out by bystanders from the wreckage. Unfortunately, the driver of the Honda was killed in the crash. The Lexus driver was later identified as 23-year-old Jose Marin Guizar Jr. He sustained significant injuries from the collision and was taken to Doctors Medical Center in Modesto for treatment. 

Authorities later determined that he was driving while under the influence at the time of the accident. He was arrested on suspicion of felony DUI. 

DUI Crash Investigation is Underway 

Local authorities are currently investigating the case. They will attempt to determine the factors that affected the accident. 

Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is one of the most reckless and irresponsible things a driver can do. It won’t just put their lives in danger, but it can potentially endanger other people’s lives. 

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), approximately 30 people in the U.S. die every day due to drunk driving accidents. Drunk driving accounts for about 29 percent of all motor vehicle accident fatalities in the U.S. Around sixty-one percent of these drivers have a Blood Alcohol Content of .08 percent or higher. 

When facing cases like this, it’s vital to have an experienced Merced County wrongful death attorney specializing in fatal DUI pedestrian accidents to conduct an independent investigation. They can re-interview important witnesses, review relevant surveillance footage from the scene, and obtain the responsible party’s phone and texting records. 

I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT

Merced County Wrongful Death Attorney for Victims of Fatal DUI Accidents 

Pending the investigation, the family of the victims may be entitled to a wrongful death claim. Family members of wrongful death victims may seek damages for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional distress following a tragic or catastrophic accident such as this sad incident.

It can be quite devastating to suddenly lose a loved one due to a fatal DUI pedestrian accident. While waiting for the official investigation results, the victim’s family is encouraged to pursue a wrongful death claim with their attorney’s help. Through the wrongful death claim, the victim’s family can seek financial compensation for the damages such as funeral costs, loss of income and companionship, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma that the fatal accident has caused them. 

Attorneys can serve as a compassionate, helpful legal guide during this difficult time for the grieving family. They will vigorously fight for their client’s rights and best interests while ensuring that the liable party will be held accountable for their negligence. Attorneys can also negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of their clients to ensure they are compensated fairly. 

If you have a nagging suspicion that someone is to blame for the death or injury of your spouse or family member, contact Arash Law. We have the resources you need to pursue justice for wrongful death and the experience to ensure that you get fair compensation. We’re conveniently located throughout California, with offices in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, Riverside, Orange County, and San Diego, and are happy to visit you at your home or office. Call (888) 488-1391 for a FREE Consultation with a wrongful death attorney in California.