In California, when an accident that causes injuries occurs, the police will test the blood alcohol content of all drivers involved. Police can even demand a blood or urine test if they suspect that intoxication is to blame. If an intoxicated driver is also found to be at fault in the accident, they may be charged with DUI causing injury. This can either be a misdemeanor or a felony charge, depending on the circumstances of the accident and the seriousness of the injuries. A “serious” injury, such as a broken bone, may result in felony charges. Previous DUI convictions can increase the probability of the charges being filed as a felony.
The Lake County News reports that a DUI crash injured seven people and ended with two arrests.
21-year-old Jose A. Velazquez was arrested Saturday morning on suspicion of DUI following an accident. 21-year-old Jorge A. Lozano, who was a passenger in Velazquez’s vehicle, was also arrested on charges of obstructing an investigation, providing false information, and disorderly conduct.
According to police, at 1:45 a.m., Velazquez was driving a 2003 Acura MDX north on Highway 29. He was traveling at approximately 50 m.p.h. At the same time, 23-year-old Yessica Patino was driving a 2017 Acura ILX southbound.
Due to intoxication, Velazquez veered into oncoming traffic, striking Patino’s vehicle. Velazquez’s vehicle eventually rolled over. Patino’s vehicle eventually stopped after spinning until it faced northwest.
Patino was trapped inside the vehicle and needed to be extricated by the fire department. Patino had minor injuries, but her passenger, 35-year-old Ismael Rodriguez had major injuries. He was transported by air to a nearby hospital.
Both Velazquez and Lozano were arrested and posted bail.
