Santa Clarita, CA (May 11, 2024) – A tragic accident late Saturday night in Canyon Country resulted in the death of a woman and injuries to four others, with the driver arrested on suspicion of DUI, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Incident Overview: The collision occurred around 11:23 p.m. at the intersection of Sierra Highway and Sand Canyon Road. A 25-year-old man from Visalia was driving a white Toyota Corolla southbound on Sierra Highway. As he made a left turn at a green light onto Sand Canyon Road, his vehicle was struck on the passenger side by a black Chevrolet Suburban traveling northbound, which also had a green light. Maritza Martinez, 30, from Panorama City and sitting in the front passenger seat of the Corolla, was pronounced dead at the scene. The other occupants of both vehicles sustained injuries. The Corolla’s driver and passengers suffered moderate injuries, while the Suburban’s driver sustained minor injuries. All injured parties were transported to Henry Mayo Newhall Hospital.
Investigation and Legal Implications: The driver of the Corolla showed signs of alcohol intoxication at the scene and was arrested on a felony DUI charge. He was booked at the Santa Clarita Valley Sheriff’s Station and later released on bond. Los Angeles County Fire Department personnel responded to the incident, providing medical aid and transporting at least two injured individuals. The CHP continues to investigate the circumstances of the crash.
In a situation like this, many think that those in the vehicle with an alleged DUI driver, or their surviving loved ones, have no legal recourse. However, drivers owe a duty of care not only to other people on the road, but also their own passengers. In cases similar to this, the victims in the car with a DUI driver often know them, which can make pursuing a wrongful death or personal injury claim emotionally charged. Unfortunately, it is often necessary in order for victims to get the compensation they need for their losses, whether it’s the loss of a loved one or medical expenses.
Mis pensamientos están con la familia y los amigos de Maritza Martínez en estos difíciles momentos, así como con los que se recuperan de sus heridas.
Source: The Santa Clarita Valley Signal