Graton DUI Crash Left 19-Year-Old Man Fatal, 18-Year-Old Driver Arrested
Graton, CA (September 25, 2023) – A Graton DUI crash left a 19-year-old passenger fatal. The 18-year-old driver also sustained injuries and was subsequently arrested suspected of DUI.
According to The Press Democrat, the accident occurred just before 11:20 a.m. on Sunday.
A Graton DUI crash left a 19-year-old man fatal and an 18-year-old driver injured. Authorities arrested the teen driver suspected of DUI.
A Graton DUI crash resulted in the death of a 19-year-old passenger. Simultaneously, the 18-year-old driver from Healdsburg was detained, suspected of DUI.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the teens were heading east on Oak Grove Avenue, west of State Route 116, in a Toyota Camry. Reportedly, the vehicle lost control and veered off the road.
Subsequently, the Camry crashed into a tree.
Pedro Lopezsantos, the driver, sustained injuries and was transported to Providence Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital.
Unfortunately, the passenger succumbed to his injuries. They will disclose his identity after informing his family.
Reports suggest Lopezsantos appeared drunk in this Graton DUI crash and was speeding.
After receiving treatment at the hospital, officers arrested Lopezsantos. He was transferred to the Sonoma County jail in Santa Rosa under suspicion of DUI, causing another person’s death.
Currently, he is in custody with a bail set at $100,000.
J&M Tip: Driving under the influence greatly elevates the risk of severe accidents, injuries, and deaths for both the intoxicated driver and other road users. Engaging a car accident attorney can safeguard your legal rights and aid in obtaining compensation if you have been impacted by a DUI-related event.
Google Map of the Car Accident in Graton, CA
More About Car Accident Liability
Various circumstances of a car accident, such as this Graton DUI crash, can pinpoint the liability of damages. In some instances, thorough investigations can reveal careless behavior. This can include the simple act of recklessly turning or cutting in front of another vehicle. In terms of determining who is at fault for an accident, this can be defined by common law. Any Sacramento or Los Angeles car accident lawyer recognizes that fault has four basic levels:
- Negligence
- Recklessness (wanton conduct)
- Intentional misconduct
- Strict liability
However, different state laws can have variations of applicable traffic laws. For example, in some states, multiple drivers can be liable for an accident. This is why thorough investigations are important after a car accident. Having a strong case showing the liability of the at-fault party can help guarantee your compensation. Likewise, a car crash attorney can also help you determine all your options, so you can fully recover from the accident. Learn more about car accident lawyers in California here. You can also check out these resources about wrongful death attorneys and personal injury lawyers.
Personal Injury (Wrongful Death) Claims: Graton DUI Crash
In this case, the family members of the victims in this Graton DUI crash can have the right to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. However, it can depend on the investigation’s findings. In addition, negligence by a person or business can contribute to an accident, which might have resulted in the death of a family member. If that is the case, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim and receive a big settlement.
Indeed, no amount of money will ever make up for the death of a loved one. However, receiving the maximum settlement and winning a judgment can give a sense of justice. Also, it can offer some peace of mind.
Do you have any legal questions about accidents? Get answers and common accident-related legal advice here:
- Wrongful Death
- Car Accident
- Pedestrian Accident
- Hit and Run Accident
- Truck Accident
- Motorcycle Accident
- Bicycle Accident
Get reliable answers to common legal questions by checking out our list of practice areas here.
Indeed, nothing can alleviate the pain of losing a loved one. However, getting your rightful compensation is also important to help with recovery. Getting advice and guidance from experienced personal injury attorneys can help you pursue your case. For instance, Jacoby and Meyers has a team of the best lawyers for any car accident, wrongful death, or motorcycle accident cases in California, including Los Angeles, Graton, and Sacramento. Consulting a lawyer can help you get insight and information about complicated topics, including car accident settlements and more. If you’d like professional advice about your case, call us today at 888-960-0480 for a free consultation. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to help you.
Source(s):
- https://patch.com/california/healdsburg/healdsburg-teen-arrested-fatal-crash-sonoma-county-crash-chp
Jacoby & Meyers does not represent any of the parties mentioned above. Nevertheless, we express our deepest sympathies for the families and friends of the victims in this Graton DUI crash.
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