DUI Collision in Madera County Critically Injures Child
A 9-year-old boy who sustained life-threatening injuries in a Madera County car accident has been identified as Sebastian Ruiz. According to a news report in The Fresno Bee, the injury collision occurred near the intersection of Road 24 and Avenue 14. Sebastian was riding his bike on the unpaved shoulder of the highway when he was struck by a car that drifted off the roadway.
The driver, who officials say was drinking beer at the time, shook the injured boy off the hood of the car and fled the scene of the collision. Officials describe the hit-and-run vehicle as a silver or gray, four-door car with stripes on both sides in a darker color than the car.
I sympathize with Sebastian who is apparently fighting for his life at a local hospital. I pray that he makes it through these critical injuries and goes on to make a full recovery. He and his family in will be in my thoughts and prayers.
DUI Statistics
There was one death and 14 injuries as a result of bicycle accidents in Madera County, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Also, during the same year, nine people died and 103 were injured due to DUI collisions in Madera County.
Drunk Driving Law
It is a serious crime under California law to drive under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. 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." Leaving the scene of an accident is also a serious crime under California Vehicle Code 20001 (a).
Claim for Compensation
It would be in the best interests of injured victims or their families in such cases to seek the counsel of an experienced California personal injury lawyer, who will stay abreast of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights are protected. A skilled car accident lawyer will also be able to determine whether a dangerous roadway may have caused or contributed to the accident. If that was the case, the governmental entity responsible for maintaining that roadway could also be held liable. Under California Government Code 911.2, any personal injury claim against a public entity must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injury.
What suggestions do you have to help deter drivers involved in car accidents from leaving the scene?
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.
