In California, a DUI is typically a misdemeanor charge. This can change, however, depending on the circumstances surrounding a DUI. For example, if the driver has three previous DUI charges within the prior 10-year period, the fourth DUI is usually always a felony. If the DUI involved serious injuries or death, even a first time DUI can be charged as a felony. A person’s previous criminal record can affect the way a DUI is charged as well. If the driver already has a felony DUI conviction on their record, the subsequent DUI is almost always charged as a felony.
CBS Local San Francisco reports that a child was airlifted to the hospital after being hit by a driver suspected of DUI who then fled the scene.
The accident happened last Thursday morning in Brentwood in the area of Sunset Road and Trailside Drive in Brentwood. Firefighters responded to the scene at about 7:05 a.m. where they found a 12-year-old girl lying on the side of the road. She was alert but had sustained major injuries.
A female driver in a GMC SUV with damage consistent with the accident was discovered by police in a nearby parking lot. She was taken into custody and charged with felony hit-and-run along with DUI.
The driver, whose name was not released, was in her late 40’s or early 50’s. Police believe that she was intoxicated by both alcohol and drugs at the time of the accident.
The crash happened approximately two blocks from the girl’s home. Police believe that she was walking southbound across Sunset and Trailside when she was struck by the vehicle.
