Santa Fe Springs, CA (December 6, 2023) 19-year-old Landon Hazelwood was arrested in Santa Fe Springs following a collision with a semi-truck that killed his two passengers. The California Highway Patrol said the accident occurred at approximately 1:39 a.m., just north of Carmenita Road on the 5 Freeway.
Hazelwood was driving a Honda Accord on the 5 Freeway, when he drifted and slammed into the back of a semi-truck that was stopped on the shoulder of the freeway. Officers said Hazelwood was driving at a high rate of speed at the time of the collision.
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Three males were inside the Honda, according to Sgt. Olivera. One of the passengers was ejected from the Honda during the crash. The driver of the semi-truck that was hit wasn’t injured in this collision.
Emergency personnel arrived at the scene and found the three occupants of the Honda. The two passengers had died during the crash and were pronounced dead at the scene. Hazelwood, who was driving, was rushed to UCI Medical Center to receive treatment for serious injuries he sustained in the crash. He was arrested for driving while under the influence, Sgt. Olivera said.
Officers obtained video of the accident that showed Hazelwood conscious and talking as he was being loaded into the ambulance at the scene.
Who Is The Responsible Party In A Santa Fe Springs DUI Accident
Liability In Bakersfield 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 DUI Accident In Santa Fe Springs
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the families of the two men killed in this tragic accident. Anyone who 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 Santa Fe 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 (866)945-4286.