PALM SPRINGS, CA (July 7, 2022) – Austin George Jackson, of Whitewater, was charged with murder today in the DUI killing of Gabriel Casiano Martinez of Gardena.
Jackson was also charged with driving under the influence causing great bodily injury after injuring another driving. His charges were enhanced with engaging in violent conduct, using a weapon and having a concurrent sentence on other crimes.
The accident occurred around 1:30 a.m. Sunday on Highway 111, north of Gateway Drive in Palm Springs.
Police say that Jackson rear-ended a vehicle at high speed, killing its occupant 56-year-old Gabriel Casiano Martinez. The 55-year-old driver of the vehicle was taken to the hospital with minor injuries.
Austin George Jackson has a previous, out-of-state arrest related to DUI, according to the Palm Springs Police Department.
Jackson will be arraigned at the Larson Justice Center in Indio Thursday afternoon.
Jackson was taken to a nearby hospital for treatment of his injuries, then booked into the John J. Benoit Center, where he is being held in lieu of $2 million bail.
via City News Service
Liability In Austin George Jackson’s DUI Car Accident
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 Palm Springs DUI Car Accident
We at West Coast Trial Lawyers extend our deepest condolences to the family of Gabriel Casiano Martinez. 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 Palm Springs? 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.