HALF MOON BAY, CA (July 25, 2022) – Thomas Hampe, 60, of Half Moon Bay, was tragically killed on Highway 1 by an alleged drunk driver with a suspended license.
The accident occurred June 25 around 4:20 p.m., according to the San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office.
Samantha Hartwell, 31, who struck Hampe with her vehicle, was said to be driving with a blood alcohol content level of 0.17%, which is well above the legal limit of 0.08% in California. Hartwell is also said to have two prior DUI convictions from 2014 and multiple license suspensions.
Hartwell was driving 80 MPH according to officers and swerving her vehicle out of control when she veered into oncoming traffic and struck a Subaru. The driver and passenger of the Subaru were both seriously injured.
Witnesses and officers didn’t see Hampe and only discovered him after his wife called hours later to report him missing.
Thomas Hampe fell down an embankment 40 feet down from the accident site, where officers discovered him. Reports say that the crash caused Hampe to die almost immediately after being struck by Hartwell.
Samantha Hartwell appeared in court July 21 in a wheelchair but did not enter a plea. She is being charged with second-degree murder, vehicular manslaughter and drunk driving, causing injury.
[via San Mateo Daily Journal]
Liability In Half Moon Bay 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 Thomas Hampe’s DUI Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Thomas Hampe.
Do you need more information about an accident that took place in Half Moon Bay? 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.