When a DUI leads to an accident that causes an injury, California courts take it more seriously than a regular DUI. Most DUIs where a police officer pulls a driver over are charged as misdemeanors. However, a DUI that leads to a crash causing injury can be upgraded to a felony.
The driver will typically face charges for the DUI. They may also face the additional charges of DUI causing injury and driving with a blood-alcohol content over 0.08% causing injury. These charges can also be either felonies or misdemeanors. With minor injuries, the charge may just be a misdemeanor. However, a crash that causes serious injuries could be charged as a felony.
The Almanac News reports that a Woodside crash near the Fogarty Winery has left one person dead and the driver with major injuries.
The crash occurred at about 7:25 p.m. on Friday night on Skyline Boulevard near the Thomas Fogarty Winery.
According to the California Highway Patrol, a BMW sedan that was occupied by two males veered off the southbound side of the road. Their vehicle slammed into a tree just north of Clouds Rest lookout point.
The passenger in the vehicle was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver suffered from major injuries and was in serious condition.
Police believe that speed along with drugs or alcohol may have played a part in the crash. The driver, whose name was not released, has been charged with driving under the influence and causing an injury
