Chico, CA (December 18, 2023) A wrong-way crash on Highway 99 in Chico left one person dead on Saturday night, according to authorities. 26-year-old Shelby Alvarez was arrested for DUI following the crash. It happened just north of Highway 32 right around 11:00 p.m.
Officers reported that Alvarez was driving the wrong way, heading south in northbound lanes, on Highway 99. A corvette was traveling north on the highway and the two vehicles collided, head-on. The force from the crash caused the driver of the Corvette to be partially ejected from the vehicle, officers said. They sustained fatal injuries in the crash and were pronounced dead at the scene.
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The California Highway Patrol determined that Alvarez had been driving while intoxicated, causing this fatal collision. Alvarez was arrested at the scene and booked into the Butte County Jail on charges of driving under the influence of alcohol resulting in injury and gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.
Highway 99 was closed for a while in the area so crews could clean up the debris and glass left behind from the crash. Tow trucks were called to remove the two vehicles from the scene and investigators searched for evidence. The California Highway Patrol stated that this investigation is ongoing.
Liability In Chico 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 Chico DUI Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the person killed in this tragic DUI 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 Chico? 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.