An alleged drunk driver struck an unidentified 53-year-old man in Petaluma on Tuesday night, September 22.
The fatal accident took place on McDowell Boulevard at approximately 7:00 p.m. The victim was standing on the sidewalk when he was suddenly hit by a Toyota Prius heading southbound on the boulevard just before Baywood Drive. The driver that hit the man did not stop to help the victim and fled the scene. He was later identified as 41-year-old James Watkins of Cotati.
While waiting for the ambulance to arrive, two off-duty law enforcement officers and one off-duty nurse assisted the victim and gave him medical care. The victim was later transported to Petaluma Valley Hospital, where he was later pronounced dead. Watkins was arrested and booked on suspicion of felony DUI and vehicular manslaughter.
Fatal DUI Pedestrian Accident Investigation Needed
Drunk driving is one of the most irresponsible and dangerous things a driver can do. It endangers the life of the drunk driver and the other motorists’ lives on the roadway as well. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration statistics, DUI accidents kill 30 people in the U.S. every day. DUI accidents in the U.S. account for approximately 29 percent of all motor vehicle fatalities. Sixty-one percent of these drunk drivers have a Blood Alcohol Content percentage of .08 and higher.
When facing cases like this, it’s essential to have an experienced Sonoma County wrongful death attorney specializing in DUI accident cases to conduct an independent probe. Attorneys have the resources to help prove the negligence of the liable party. They can re-interview important witnesses, review related surveillance footage from the scene, and obtain the responsible party’s phone and texting records.
Sonoma County Wrongful Death Attorney for Victims of Fatal DUI Pedestrian Accidents
It can be quite devastating to suddenly lose a loved one due to a fatal DUI pedestrian accident. The stress and sorrow they feel may be overwhelming to go through. The victim’s family is entitled to pursue a wrongful death claim while waiting for the official investigation results.
Through the wrongful death claim, the victim’s family can seek compensation for the damages (such as loss of companionship and income, pain and suffering, and emotional distress) that the accident has caused them. Attorneys can survive as a helpful legal guide during these difficult times for the grieving family. They will vigorously fight for their client’s rights while ensuring that the negligent driver will be held accountable for their suspected crime.
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.