Napa County, CA (August 29, 2023) A passenger was killed on Sunday morning after the vehicle they were in was involved in a crash in Napa County, according to California Highway Patrol. The driver of the vehicle, identified as Stephen Carter Patterson was arrested for suspicion of driving while under the influence of alcohol, following the accident.
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The crash was reported around 5:50 a.m. on Sunday morning. Officers were called to the area of Highway 128 and Chiles Valley Road. There, they found a GMC Yukon that had tumbled down an embankment. The California Highway Patrol said the driver, 54-year-old Patterson, lost control while trying to take a left-hand curve. The Yukon tumbled down the embankment and rolled several times.
The passenger in the vehicle was killed in the accident.
Officers detained Patterson on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. He was booked into the Napa County Jail.
Liability In Napa 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 A Napa County DUI Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the person killed in this collision. 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 Napa 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.