PORTERVILLE, CA (AUGUST 29, 2023): 26-year-old Carlos Phillip Cortez has been arrested for a DUI collision that caused injuries on Saturday.
Porterville authorities report that Cortez was initially stopped for a routine traffic enforcement in the area of Henderson Avenue and Prospect Street. While Cortex momentarily complied, he then recklessly fled the scene. Police terminated their pursuit due to this reckless driving.
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Moment later, authorities received a report of a vehicle striking a pole and another vehicle on Olive Avenue. They discovered that Cortez was again the driver.
Cortez fled the scene on foot, but was eventually detained and arrested. It was determined that Cortez was driving under the influence, was unlicensed, and was on CDCR parole. He was booked at the South County Detention Facility for Reckless Evading; Driving Under the Influence Causing Injury; Fleeing the Scene of an Injury Traffic Collision; Driving While Unlicensed; and a parole hold. He is being held without bail.
The motorist struck by Cortez suffered minor injuries.
Liability In Porterville DUI Car Accidents
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 23152, “(a) It is unlawful for a person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage to drive a vehicle. (b) It is unlawful for a person who has 0.08 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to drive a vehicle.” Even small amounts of alcohol can substantially impair drivers in the following ways:
- Delayed reaction times
- Loss of muscle control
- Impaired judgment
- Lowered alertness
The family of any victim that has been injured or killed in a collision with a drunk driver may have legal recourse through a bodily injury or wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the unique facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Porterville DUI Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our well wishes to the man injured in this collision. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about an accident that took place in Porterville? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of personal injury attorneys are here to answer any questions that you may have. Whether you just have legal questions or need more information about an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.
