(Carlsbad, CA) A two-vehicle La Costa Avenue DUI crash caused by Philip Webb, 33, resulted in the death of Leonard Davison, 51, in Carlsbad.
On Saturday, August 9, at 5:20 a.m., the La Costa Avenue crash occurred. According to the Carlsbad Police Department, it happened at the intersection of La Costa Avenue and Piraeus Street.
When police investigated, they learned Philip Webb of Oceanside drove a Subaru crossover. At some point, he crashed with a Nissan pickup truck, driven by Leonard Davison. By the time officers arrived, they found Davison with serious injuries. Despite transporting him to a hospital, Davison died due to the La Costa Avenue DUI crash. Police later arrested Webb on suspicion of driving under the influence. The CPD reported Webb will be booked in the county jail in Vista.
Legal Opinion on the La Costa Avenue DUI Crash
The crash at La Costa Avenue and Piraeus Street involves clear violations of California law. Under California Vehicle Code 23152, it is illegal to operate a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. When a DUI causes a fatal collision, prosecutors can pursue charges under Penal Code 191.5(a) for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. This is a serious felony that can carry significant prison time.
In this case, police identified Philip Webb as the driver of the Subaru and arrested him at the scene. Despite paramedics transporting Leonard Davison, he died at the hospital. Under California law, Webb’s arrest for DUI will form the foundation of both the criminal case and any civil claims brought by the Davison’s family. The evidence will likely include field sobriety tests, chemical test results, crash scene analysis, and witness accounts.
Leonard Davison’s family has the right to file a wrongful death lawsuit under Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. They can seek compensation for funeral and burial expenses, loss of companionship, and the financial support Davison would have provided. If Webb’s actions are found to be grossly negligent due to intoxication, punitive damages may also be involved. Webb’s insurance, if any, will be the first source of recovery, but if policy limits are insufficient, the family can pursue his personal assets.
What the Family can Do
The Davison’s family should contact an experienced wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. The CPD’s collision report, DUI test results, and any surveillance footage from nearby intersections will be critical in proving liability. The attorney can also work with the San Diego County District Attorney’s office to monitor the criminal proceedings, which may help strengthen the civil case. While the criminal case will focus on punishment, the civil action ensures the family receives financial compensation for their loss. Acting quickly will help preserve crucial evidence, prevent delays in insurance claims, and ensure that the family’s legal rights are fully protected within California’s two-year statute of limitations for wrongful death actions.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is a difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
