DUI Suspect Arrested After Fatal Hit-and-Run in Modesto
DUI Accident, Modesto, CA
Daniel Zaragoza, 37, was Driving on Hatch Road When a Fatal Collision took place
Modesto, CA –At dawn, on a quiet Sunday morning, a tragic hit-and-run accident disrupted the peace in Modesto, California, leading to the arrest of Daniel Zaragoza.
The Incident
In the early hours of Sunday, July 14, 2024, at approximately 5:30 a.m., a devastating car accident occurred on Hatch Road, just east of Highway 99 in Modesto, California.
Daniel Zaragoza, 37, was driving a Chevrolet SUV westbound on Hatch Road when he collided with a parked Toyota Prius. The Prius, positioned along the north curb line, had two male occupants. The collision resulted in the death of the passenger at the scene, while the extent of injuries to the driver remains unspecified.
Following the crash, Zaragoza attempted to flee but was apprehended nearby by the Modesto Police Department. Arrested on charges including gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, DUI with injuries, hit-and-run, and driving while unlicensed, Zaragoza now faces significant legal repercussions.
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Legal ImplicationsÂ
The tragic incident involving Daniel Zaragoza brings several legal implications to the forefront. Zaragoza faces charges of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, DUI with injuries, hit-and-run, and driving without a license, which collectively carry severe penalties if convicted.
Gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated alone can lead to years of imprisonment. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), drunk-driving crashes accounted for 30% of all traffic fatalities in the United States in 2020, with California experiencing 1,161 such deaths, making up 28.4% of its traffic fatalities.
Additionally, hit-and-run fatalities have seen a 13% increase from 2019 to 2020. Understanding these statistics underscores the critical need for stringent legal actions and deterrents against drunk driving and hit-and-run incidents.
FAQs
- What should I do immediately after a car accident? Ensure everyone’s safety, call emergency services if needed, exchange information, take photos, gather witness details, and report the accident to the police.
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- What are the legal consequences of a DUI causing death? Penalties can include imprisonment, hefty fines, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. The severity varies based on jurisdiction and case details.
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- How can an attorney help in a hit-and-run case? An attorney can navigate the legal proceedings, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and advocate for fair compensation and justice on your behalf.
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- What evidence is needed to prove gross vehicular manslaughter? Crucial evidence includes police reports, witness statements, accident scene photos, medical reports, and expert testimony on the driver’s intoxication level and conduct.
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- Why is it important to act quickly after a DUI accident? Prompt action helps in gathering fresh evidence, complying with legal deadlines, and ensuring a stronger case for compensation and justice.
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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 Modesto 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