California has become strict when it comes to DUI offenders. Although a DUI is generally a misdemeanor crime, there are circumstances when it can be charged as a felony. Felony charges mean more serious penalties, including having a felony record and time spent in state prison.
California can charge a DUI as a felony in specific circumstances. One of these circumstances is if the driver has had three or more previous DUI convictions in the previous ten years. Another circumstance is if the driver has a previous felony DUI conviction. In this case, the driver is almost always charged with a felony DUI. One more circumstance where a DUI can be charged as a felony is if there is an accident involving injuries or a fatality.
The SVC News reports that a crash in Newhall has left three people injured.
The crash occurred on northbound State Route 14 just south of Newhall Avenue at about 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday.
The Los Angeles County Fire Department received reports of a motor vehicle accident. The reports indicated that a vehicle had gone over the wall and had smoke coming from the vehicle.
The driver of the vehicle is suspected of driving under the influence. The driver, alone with two passengers, were moderately injured in the crash. The driver was placed under arrest and released at the hospital.
The crash is still under investigation.
