Car accident in Visalia Involves Suspected Drunk Driver
Officials arrested a man on suspicion of driving under the influence after a car accident that seriously injured 52-year-old Melonee Watson. The Visalia Times-Delta reports that the accident happened on May 22, 2010 on Road 132 near Avenue 320. Both Watson and the other driver were driving Chevy Silverado pickup trucks. California Highway Patrol officials said Watson was traveling north on Ben Maddox Way when the other vehicle drifted into her lane and crashed head-on into her truck.
I hope the victim in this case, Melonee Watson, did not sustain catastrophic injuries. I wish her the very best for a quick and complete recovery. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayer.
Car Accidents Involving Impaired Drivers
In Tulare County, DUI collisions caused 21 deaths and 214 injuries in 2008, according to CHP's traffic accident statistics. In the city of Visalia, one person died and 57 were injured as a result of DUI crashes during the same year.
Laws and Liability Issues
It is illegal under California law to operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or higher. According to California Vehicle Code section 23152 (a): "It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle." If the other driver is found to have been at fault in this accident, he could be held not only criminally accountable, but also civilly liable for the injuries and damages caused to the victim.
In such cases, it would be in the best interests of injured victims to contact a reputed California personal injury lawyer, who has the experience and a successful track record holding drunk drivers financially responsible for their actions. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free and comprehensive consultation to accident victims and their families.
Should all states start requiring Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) for first-time DUI offenders? Let us know what you think.
None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.
