MADERA COUNTY, CA (JULY 14, 2023): A 20-year-old woman was killed Monday morning following a head-on collision in Madera County. 38-year-old Michael Messer was driving in the wrong direction on Ellis Street when he slammed into the woman’s vehicle just before 4 a.m. California Highway Patrol authorities suspect Messer was under the influence and have placed him under arrest.
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The crash occurred as Messer, driving eastbound, struck the woman heading westbound on her way to work. The woman’s car was destroyed and Messer’s truck was badly damaged as a result of the fatal accident.
Messer was not wearing a seatbelt and suffered severe injuries. He was transported to a Fresno hospital where he was placed under arrest with the suspicion of DUI. According to authorities, Messer’s vehicle contained alcohol containers and other paraphernalia. Records reveal this is Messer’s third DUI arrest, with previous charges in 2018 and 2020.
The woman was reported dead at the scene. Her identity remains confidential.
Liability In Madera County 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 Michael Messer’s DUI Crash
We at Accident News Now extend our well wishes to the woman tragically killed by Michael Messer and hope they can find peace. 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 Madera County? 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.