In December of 2021, county prosecutors across the state of California warned of a sharp increase in DUI cases. Deadly crashes involving intoxicated drivers rose 15% statewide. As mask and social restrictions begin to ease across the country, authorities believe that DUI accidents may go even higher still.
On Scene TV reports that a man has been arrested on suspicion of DUI after driving his vehicle off the right shoulder of Highway 54 and down a 100-foot embankment.
According to a statement released by the California Highway Patrol, eyewitnesses to the crash told officers that the driver was traveling approximately 45 miles per hour before his vehicle flew off of the freeway. Witnesses called 911 to report the crash.
Firefighters and paramedics with the Chula Vista Fire Department responded to the scene of the crash and were able to extricate the man from his vehicle and helped him back up the steep hill.
According to video footage taken at the scene, the man appeared to have only suffered moderate injuries; however, he was transported to an area hospital for evaluation and possible treatment.
Because the California Highway Patrol suspected the man of driving under the influence of alcohol, a blood tech was called to meet them at the hospital for blood alcohol testing.
Authorities have not yet released the driver’s identity.
