UPDATE September 19, 2022 4:44 p.m.: The victim has been identified as Sandy Mendoza, 20, and the DUI driver as Antonio Orosco, 27.
KERMAN, CA (September 19, 2022) – A 27-year-old driver was one of five people hurt in a head-on DUI crash in Kerman, located in Fresno County, according to KSBY.
The 27-year-old was driving a 2003 Honda that veered into oncoming traffic into the path of a 2017 Acura around 9 p.m. on Saturday, September 17.
The driver of the Acura was identified only as a 20-year-old woman from Mendota who unfortunately did not survive the crash. She was carrying four passengers who all suffered injuries–three with major injuries and one with minor injuries.
The Honda driver was arrested at the scene for suspicion of DUI and vehicular manslaughter.
The identity of the drunk driver and the woman he killed are still unknown at the time of this writing.
We will update this story with more information when it becomes available to us.
Liability In Kerman 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 Kerman DUI Car Crash
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Sandy Mendoza. 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 Kerman? 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.