Normally, a person might think that refusing a chemical test to determine if they are driving under the influence would be the way to go. However, in the state of California, you agree to allow such tests when you get your license. In fact, refusing the test can result in even stiffer penalties than just submitting to the test.
For a first DUI, this can mean two extra days in jail, a mandatory suspension of license for one year, and a nine-month DUI school instead of the customary three-month school in a first DUI. There are very few exceptions to being able to legally refuse the test.
ABC7 reports on a DUI accident that claimed three lives in Vermont Knolls.
A fiery crash that claimed three lives in Vermont Knolls is thought to be the result of a DUI.
The crash occurred at about 7:30 pm on Saturday, April 28th at the intersection of Hoover and West 76th Streets. Involved in the crash was a van carrying five passengers and a car driven by a male.
Witnesses said they saw the driver hit another vehicle and flee prior to the deadly crash. An adult, a child, and an infant were killed in the collision, which also injured two other adults and a child.
The two adults and the child suffered critical injuries.
Witnesses describe the suspect getting out of his burning vehicle and then rolling around on the ground in order to stop the flames.
Witnesses attempted to help the three people trapped inside the burning van, but the flames became too intense. Explosions also forced the witnesses to keep their distance.
The suspect, whose name was not released, suffered from critical injuries. He was later arrested and booked on suspicion of DUI.
