A woman is facing drunk driving charges after officials say she rammed into a light pole and high-voltage power lines near the intersection of Ventura Boulevard and Lankershim Boulevard in Sherman Oaks. According to a news report in the Los Angeles Times, the woman’s black pickup truck caught fire on impact. Another vehicle was also involved in the crash, but that driver escaped with minor injuries, officials said. The truck’s driver was arrested and booked on suspicion of driving under the influence.
It is illegal under California law to operate a motor vehicle with blood alcohol concentrations higher than 0.08 percent. According to 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.”
Drunk driving charges can become even more serious when other parties are injured or killed. DUI can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Often, when there is extensive property damage or when a person other than the driver in question is injured in a DUI crash, it is likely that the charge will be a felony. If convicted of a DUI, individuals can face significant consequences including jail time, hefty fines, mandatory alcohol counseling programs, court fees, installation of an ignition interlock device, and hikes in insurance premiums.
If you or a loved one has been charged with driving under the influence, an experienced Los Angeles DUI defense attorney at Sitkoff & Hanrahan can help you better understand your legal rights and options. Please contact us at (866) 430-8383 for a free and comprehensive consultation.