California Car Accident Reports

Four people were injured in a San Bernardino, California car accident the afternoon of July 26, 2009 caused by a wrong-way driver on the 215 Freeway. According to the San Bernardino Sun, a brown sedan entered the freeway on an off-ramp and drove northbound on southbound lanes. California Highway Patrol officials said four to five cars were involved in the car accident. CHP officials are looking into whether the driver of the sedan was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Two people suffered serious injuries and two other suffered moderate injuries. However, none of the injuries was life-threatening.

I'm relieved that this car accident did not result in catastrophic injuries or death. It certainly could have been a lot worse. I wish the injured victims the very best for a quick and complete recovery. Please keep them in your prayers.

San Bernardino Car Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2007 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 32 fatalities and 1,777 injuries involving car accidents in the city of San Bernardino. In San Bernardino County as a whole, 308 fatalities and 9,920 injuries were reported in 2007 as a result of car crashes. Also, during the same year, 105 deaths and 1,174 injuries were reported as a result of alcohol-related car accidents in San Bernardino County.

Based on this newspaper report, I would not be surprised if the wrong-way driver was under the influence at the time of this San Bernardino County car accident. This driver could be held civilly liable for the accident and injuries caused to these four victims.

California Drunk Driving Laws

Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is against California law. California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a) states: "It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle." The same code section also states that it is illegal for any person with a blood alcohol content of 0.08 percent or more to drive a vehicle.

In such cases, where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, injured victims would be well-advised to consult an experienced California car accident attorney who will help identify the negligent parties and hold them responsible. Injured victims in such cases will be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages and other related damages. If the motorist who caused this accident does not have car insurance or sufficient insurance to cover the damages, the uninsured/underinsured motorist clause in the victims' car insurance policy should help cover the damages. However, these insurance issues are complicated. A skilled California personal injury lawyer will be able to explain your legal rights and options. The best personal injury law firms always offer a free and comprehensive initial consultation.