A 21-year-old woman killed January 1, 2010, in a San Diego car accident caused by a suspected drunk driver, has been identified by local authorities as Elaina Luquis-Ortiz, 21. According to a 10news report, the accident occurred on the 805 Freeway during the early morning hours after a suspected drunk driver crashed into her vehicle while she waited with her friends for help. Shortly before the fatal crash Luquis-Ortiz had arrived to help out two friends who were stranded on the freeway because their vehicle had a flat tire.
All three sat inside Luquis-Ortiz's Mazda RX7 as they waited for the tow truck to arrive, when a 2006 Chevy Tahoe driven by Joseph Venegas, 40, hit the rear of the Mazda. Luquis-Ortiz, six months pregnant, was pronounced dead at the scene and her two friends were taken to an area hospital with serious injuries. Venegas is facing felony DUI charges in connection with this fatal car accident.
My heart goes out to the family and friends of Luquis-Ortiz for their devastating loss. I particularly sympathize with her husband, a U.S. Marine who recently returned from Afghanistan. I also wish the two injured victims the very best for a quick and full recovery. These victims and their families will be in my prayers.
DUI Car Accidents
There were 41 fatalities and 894 injuries involving DUI car accidents in San Diego, according to CHP's 2007 traffic accident statistics. Countywide, 116 fatalities and 2,068 injuries were reported as a result of alcohol-related car accidents during the same year.
DUI Laws in California
In cases where drunk driving results in the death of someone other than the drunk driver, he or she will face not only DUI charges but also gross vehicular manslaughter charges. 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."
Liability Issues in Car Accidents
The family of Elaina Luquis-Ortiz as well as the severely injured victims here would be well-advised to consult with an experienced San Diego personal injury lawyer, who has successfully pursued personal injury cases against negligent drivers. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free and comprehensive consultation to injured victims and their families.
We are not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free confidential consultation to "not a fault" persons named in this article and their family members.
I think this is the time where an injury lawyer have to play their important role.
My condolences to all the victims and their loved ones.