Napa, CA (July 26,2023) 31-year-old Esmerelda Ortiz of Union City, was injured Tuesday afternoon in a motorcycle accident on Highway 221. Ortiz was the passenger on the motorcycle, driven by Jose DeJesus Fernandez, Jr., 35, of Fairfield.
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California Highway Patrol were called to Highway 221, south of Streblow Drive, around 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Ortiz and Fernandez were riding a 2020 Harley-Davidson Road Glide and were passing other vehicles on the right shoulder of the southbound lanes, very dangerously, when Fernandez lost control of the motorcycle. They hit the shoulder and flipped into traffic lanes, according to California Highway Patrol.
Ortiz was taken to Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center via American Medical Response ambulance, with serious injuries. Fernandez received minor injuries and was taken into custody on suspicion of driving under the influence.
Liability In Napa DUI Car Accidents
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 23152, “(a) It is unlawful for a person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage to drive a vehicle. (b) It is unlawful for a person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a vehicle.” Even small amounts of alcohol can substantially impair drivers in the following ways:
- Delayed reaction times
- Loss of muscle control
- Impaired judgment
- Lowered alertness
The family of any victim that has been injured or killed in a collision with a drunk driver may have legal recourse through a bodily injury or wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Napa DUI Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend well wishes to Esmerelda Ortiz. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about an accident that took place in Bakersfield? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. Whether you just have legal questions or need more information about an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.