Winchester, CA (October 24, 2023) 54-year-old Ernest Lugo of Westminster was arrested following a tragic head-on collision in Winchester that left one person dead on Sunday, October 22nd, according to the California Highway Patrol. The accident occurred around 7:20 p.m. on Domenigoni Parkway at Alamar Mesa Drive.
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Ernest Lugo was driving his 2016 Chevrolet pickup in the wrong direction, heading west in the eastbound lanes of the road. At the same time a 2008 BMW was heading east on the same road and the two vehicles collided head-on. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles and hurled debris all over the roadway. The debris also flew into a nearby Nissan sedan that was driving behind the BMW. The Nissan only sustained minor damage. The BMW and the Chevrolet pickup had to both be towed from the crash site.
The Riverside County Fire Department arrived at the scene and pronounced the driver of the BMW dead at that scene. Ernest Lugo and the passenger in his vehicle both sustained minor injuries in the collision. They were both taken to a local hospital for treatment where Lugo was screened for alcohol impairment. Officers confirmed that he had been driving under the influence of alcohol during the collision and he was arrested. Lugo is currently being held without bail at the Byrd Detention Center in Murrieta.
Liability In Winchester 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 Winchester DUI Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the person killed in this tragic accident. 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 Winchester? 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.