RSSWhile accidents are commonplace on every type of Los Angeles roadway, rarely does one actually expect to be in a wreck. Even more shocking are accidents that injure or claim the life of a loved one. Earlier this month in Ventura County, a mother was involved in accident that not only led to DUI charges but also to the death of her 7-year-old child.
The woman was behind the wheel of a Ford Mustang on August 13 a little after 7:00 pm when the unthinkable happened. The vehicle veered off the Pacific Coast Highway in Point Mugu and collided with a tree in the vicinity of Las Posas Road.
Officials believe the vehicle may have been transporting up to five passengers, although the 2002 Mustang only came with four seatbelts. According to the California Highway Patrol, the 34-year-old driver’s son was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash; the child died due to crash-related injuries, noted the CHP.
Two of the driver’s other children were also in the car at the time of impact. One of them, a 12-year-old, sustained a broken arm while another passenger, a 33-year-old woman, sustained several fractures in the crash as well as injuries to her face.
The driver, a mother from Camarillo, allegedly displayed signs of impairment at the crash site, observed CHP. The now faces charges of felony DUI as well as other charges that are pending. Following the deadly incident the woman must now not only cope with unexpected loss, but also likely form a DUI defense at the same time. Even under normal circumstances a DUI charge can be overwhelming and difficult to face without assertive legal guidance; when a loved one’s death must be dealt with simultaneously it can be near-impossible.
In California, a wreck involving injury or death to one’s own passengers can be just as severe in terms of legal penalties as a crash involving a separate vehicle. Those convicted of a felony DUI can be confronting the possibility of time in prison, among other harsh consequences, if there is a conviction.
Whether you have been charged with a first-time DUI or are a repeat offender, contact experienced DUI defense attorney Jonathan I. Kelman at 310.286.1218.