A 39-year-old Baldwin Park man was arrested for drunk driving after being involved in a fatal Los Angeles County car accident that resulted in two fatalities. According to a CBS Los Angeles news report, the fatal accident occurred on the 60 Freeway east of Atlantic Boulevard in Monterey Park. California Highway Patrol officials say a Ford pickup truck rear-ended a disabled Honda. A 34-year-old man and a 31-year-old passenger in the Honda were killed. The driver of the truck was arrested on suspicion of felony driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.
Under California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a): “It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.” When a driver who is under the influence of drugs or alcohol causes a fatal crash, he or she can be charged with gross vehicular manslaughter as well. If it is determined that the driver was intoxicated or behaving reckless, he or she could face a second-degree murder charge. If the driver has had prior DUI convictions, then he or she could face a murder charge.
These are extremely serious charges that can have life changing consequences. It is critical that individuals facing DUI-related charges in Los Angeles seek the counsel of an experienced DUI defense lawyer who will fight to get the charges dismissed or reduced. DUI charges could result in license suspension, hefty fines, jail time, and mandatory alcohol education programs. Vehicular manslaughter or murder charges could result in lengthy prison sentences.
The skilled Monterey Park DUI defense attorneys at Sitkoff & Hanrahan have a long record of successfully fighting drunk driving charges. If you or a loved one has been accused of driving under the influence, please contact us at (866) 430-8383 for a no-cost consultation.