Hit and Run, DUI Collision Claims One Life in Merced
DUI Accident, Merced, CA
Fatal Collision that Claimed One Life happened at the Intersection of La Mesa Court and Carmen Way
Merced, CA –A tragic two-vehicle DUI collision involving a hit-and-run on Carmen Way in Merced resulted in the death of a 55-year-old man early Saturday morning.Â
The Incident
The fatal car accident in Merced involved two vehicles and occurred on Saturday morning, July 13, 2024. The collision took place at approximately 7:30 a.m., at the intersection of La Mesa Court and Carmen Way.
The incident involved a gray Honda Civic, driven by 55-year-old Raul V., and a white Hyundai Tucson driven by 35-year-old Jennifer M. According to authorities, Raul V. was traveling west when his vehicle was struck by Jennifer M., who was speeding north on La Mesa Street. Despite receiving immediate medical attention, Raul V. succumbed to his injuries at the scene.
Following the crash, Jennifer M. fled without reporting the incident, a hit-and-run that culminated in her arrest later that day. She faces multiple charges, including DUI, hit-and-run resulting in injury or death, and vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence. The investigation is ongoing as authorities continue to collect information to understand the incident’s circumstances fully.
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Legal ImplicationsÂ
A DUI collision leading to a fatality has significant legal implications. In California, a DUI hit-and-run that results in death can incur serious charges like vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, which carries a prison sentence of 4 to 10 years and fines up to $10,000.
Such accidents are unfortunately common; in 2020, approximately 32% of all traffic fatalities involved a drunk-driving driver (NHTSA). Furthermore, hit-and-run crashes predominantly occur at night, but this incident’s morning timing is an anomaly.
The average BAC level for DUI arrests in Merced County was 0.15 in 2022, nearly twice the legal limit, indicating the severity of drunk driving offenses. These statistics emphasize the importance of legal recourse for victims and their families to navigate the complex legal landscape following such devastating events.
FAQs
- Â What should I do immediately after a car accident? Ensure safety first, call emergency services immediately, exchange information with any witnesses, and report the incident to the police.
- What legal penalties does someone face for a DUI hit-and-run causing death in California? They could face charges of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, with penalties ranging from 4 to 10 years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
- How can I gather evidence if I witness a hit-and-run accident? Capture details like the vehicle’s make, model, and license plate number, take photos of the scene, and immediately report these to the authorities.
- Why is it crucial to seek legal representation immediately after a DUI incident? Legal representation ensures that the evidence is preserved, claims are filed promptly, and your rights are protected throughout the legal process.
- What compensation might be available to families of DUI accident victims? Families can seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, pain and suffering, and punitive damages in some cases.
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Don’t navigate the aftermath of a DUI accident alone. Let the Scranton Law Firm stand by your side. With over 50 years of experience as personal injury lawyers, we’ve helped thousands recover from their losses. If you or a loved one are affected by a Merced DUI accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Secure your rights and seek the justice you deserve. Call us now for a free consultation – The Scranton Law Firm, your trusted ally in these challenging times. Call 800-707-0707 now.Â