FRESNO, CA (July 25, 2022) – Jalessa Johnson, 30, of Lancaster, was arrested for suspicion of DUI after causing major injuries to a 2-year-old in a crash on Highway 180.
The accident occurred around 4:50 a.m. just east of Chestnut Avenue according to the Fresno Bee.
Jalessa Johnson was driving under the influence and was unable to stop her 2006 Chrysler 300 when a 2002 Toyota Tacoma in front of her slowed down.
California Highway Patrol officers say that Johnson’s Chrysler struck the rear of the Toyota and caused several other crashes to occur as the vehicles blocked the road.
Johnson and a 2-year-old child in her car were taken to Community Regional Medical Center with major injuries. CHP officers say that the child was in a car seat that wasn’t fitted properly.
Another passenger in the vehicle, a 34-year-old man from Fresno, was taken to the hospital with moderate injuries.
Jalessa Johnson was arrested by CHP officers for suspicion of DUI.
Liability In Fresno 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 Fresno DUI Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our well wishes to the young child injured in this case, and anyone else who may have sustained injuries as a result of this crash. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police.
Do you need more information about an accident that took place in Fresno? 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.