Man Charged in Fatal Modesto DUI Hit-and-Run Incident
DUI Accident, Modesto, CA
Police Arrest Man in Deadly DUI Hit-and-Run along Hatch Road East of Highway 99
Modesto, CA –In the early hours of Sunday morning, Modesto police responded to a tragic accident along Hatch Road that claimed one life and left another person injured.
The Incident
Early Sunday morning, August 4, 2024, a devastating accident occurred along Hatch Road east of Highway 99 in Modesto, California. Daniel Zaragoza, 37, is accused of causing a fatal hit-and-run crash while driving under the influence.
Police reports indicate that Zaragoza was driving a Chevrolet SUV westbound when he collided with a parked Toyota Prius containing two men. The impact of the collision was severe, resulting in the death of the Prius’s passenger at the scene.
Zaragoza attempted to flee the scene but was quickly apprehended nearby. He faces multiple charges, including gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, DUI with injuries, hit and run, and driving without a license. The investigation is ongoing, with limited details about the identities and conditions of those involved.
Legal ImplicationsÂ
The legal repercussions for Zaragoza are severe. In California, gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated can lead to a prison term of up to 10 years and a $10,000 fine. The recent uptick in DUI-related fatalities brings the importance of stricter enforcement into sharp focus. Nationwide, there were 11,654 deaths due to alcohol-impaired driving in 2020, accounting for nearly 30% of all traffic fatalities (NHTSA). Hit-and-run incidents have also increased by 13.7% over the last decade, with 1 in 5 fatalities linked to such accidents (AAA). The CDC estimates the economic cost of these tragedies at $44 billion annually.
FAQs
- What steps should be taken immediately after a car accident? Ensure everyone’s safety first. Call emergency services if there are injuries. Exchange information with the other driver, take photos, and gather contact details from any witnesses. Report the accident to the police and seek medical attention, even if you feel fine initially.
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- What penalties can one face for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated in California? Penalties range from 4 to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $10,000. The severity depends on the circumstances surrounding the incident.
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- What is the trend in hit-and-run accidents in the US? Hit-and-run accidents have increased by 13.7% over the past decade. They account for 1 in 5 fatalities, making them a growing concern.
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- How does DUI impact the economy? The CDC estimates the economic cost of alcohol-impaired driving crashes at $44 billion annually, emphasizing the wide-reaching impact of these incidents.
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- Why is legal representation crucial in a DUI incident? Expert legal representation helps navigate complex laws, gather and present evidence, and advocate for fair compensation and justice. An experienced attorney handles negotiations and legal paperwork, allowing victims to focus on recovery.
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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