Upland, CA (October 2, 2024) – A tragic accident in Upland, California, has left 83-year-old Barbara Taylor dead and her adult granddaughter critically injured following a suspected DUI crash on Wednesday, October 2, 2024.
Accident Details: Taylor, a resident of Rancho Cucamonga, was driving with her granddaughter when they approached the intersection of Euclid Avenue and 15th Street at around 4 p.m. After stopping at the sign, Taylor proceeded through the intersection. However, before they could make it across, their vehicle was struck by a speeding driver. Witness Robert Velto described the speeding car as a “blur,” saying the gray vehicle was traveling excessively.
Emergency responders arrived on the scene and had to use hydraulic tools to free the victims from their severely damaged car. Taylor was tragically pronounced dead at the hospital, while her granddaughter remained in critical condition as of Thursday evening.
Investigation: The driver of the speeding vehicle, identified as 25-year-old Jose Ramirez, displayed signs of intoxication at the scene. According to Upland Police, Ramirez’s blood alcohol content was twice the legal limit. He was also driving without a valid driver’s license, and it was discovered that Ramirez had been previously arrested for DUI just months earlier in July 2024. Ramirez, along with his passenger, sustained only minor injuries.
Aftermath: Ramirez was arrested and booked at the West Valley Detention Center, facing charges of murder and driving under the influence, causing great bodily injury. The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office is reviewing the case to determine whether additional charges will be filed. According to residents, the fatal crash has reignited concerns about traffic safety on Euclid Avenue, a road where speeding has long been an issue.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination.
Driving Under the Influence: In addition to criminal charges, Ramirez may face civil liability based on negligence. By driving under the influence, Ramirez violated his legal duty to drive safely. When someone drinks and drives, they breach this duty, putting others at significant risk. Because Ramirez has a prior record and was driving, this may add further evidence of negligence.
Road Safety: Given the concerns raised by residents about the speeding issues on Euclid Avenue, the city of Upland could face scrutiny regarding road design and enforcement of traffic laws in the area, although holding a municipality liable for such accidents can be more complex.
Claims: Barbara Taylor’s family may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit for compensation for their loss, including funeral expenses and emotional distress. Taylor’s granddaughter, who remains in critical condition, may also have a personal injury claim to seek compensation for her extensive medical treatment and other damages resulting from the crash.
My deepest condolences go out to the family of Barbara Taylor as they navigate this difficult time, and I hope for the granddaughter’s full recovery.
Source: KTLA