(Los Angeles, CA) Seven people sustained injuries in a Grand Avenue DUI collision after two vehicles crashed and struck pedestrians downtown early Sunday morning.
On Sunday, September 14, just before 3:00 a.m., the Grand Avenue DUI collision occurred. According to the Los Angeles Police Department, it happened along South Grand Avenue in downtown Los Angeles.
Investigators learned two vehicles collided, then careened onto the sidewalk where several pedestrians were walking. The impact injured a total of seven people. The Los Angeles Fire Department reported that two women in their 20s suffered critical injuries, while a 49-year-old man remained in serious condition.
Three other women were listed in fair condition, and the condition of the seventh victim has not yet been confirmed. Authorities transported all victims to local hospitals for treatment. Police arrested one of the drivers at the scene on suspicion of DUI. The cause of the Grand Avenue DUI collision remains under investigation.
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Legal Opinion on the Grand Avenue DUI Collision
The Grand Avenue DUI collision raises serious legal concerns under California law. Since multiple pedestrians were struck, and two victims remain in critical condition, this case carries both criminal and civil implications. The most direct violation is California Vehicle Code 23152, which prohibits driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. When a DUI causes injury, charges often elevate to California Vehicle Code 23153, which addresses DUI with bodily injury. Because seven people suffered injuries, prosecutors may also pursue California Penal Code 191.5, which covers gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, if any victim does not survive.
Since the pedestrians were struck while on the sidewalk, California Vehicle Code 21950 is also relevant. This law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians at crosswalks and use due care to avoid endangering them. While these victims were not in a crosswalk, the law underscores a driver’s duty to act with caution near pedestrians. Additionally, reckless behavior could invoke California Vehicle Code 23103, which defines reckless driving as willful disregard for the safety of others. Striking multiple people on a sidewalk after a DUI crash likely meets this standard.
What the Victims and Their Families Can Do
The injured victims and their families should immediately contact a personal injury attorney. An attorney can secure the police report, review surveillance footage from the busy downtown area, and interview witnesses. These steps will help confirm liability. Victims may file civil personal injury claims to recover medical expenses, lost wages, rehabilitation costs, and damages for pain and suffering. Those with life-threatening injuries may also pursue claims for long-term disability and future care.
If any victim does not survive, their family may bring a wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. This can provide compensation for funeral expenses and the emotional devastation of losing a loved one. While the criminal case will hold the DUI driver accountable to the state, civil claims ensure victims and families receive financial support and justice. Acting quickly after the Grand Avenue DUI collision will help preserve evidence and strengthen their case.
We at Accident News Now offer our encouragement and support. We know this is a confusing time as you deal with the uncertainties resulting from this terrible incident. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
