A DUI collision in Napa resulted in major injuries for 77-year-old Charles Heatherly the morning of July 14, 2010. The Napa Valley Register reports that the crash happened at the intersection of Solano Avenue and Luke Drive when 47-year-old James Fannin, who was traveling south on Solano, crossed over the to northbound lanes and crashed into Heatherly's vehicle. Heatherly, who was seriously injured, was taken to an area hospital for treatment. Police arrested Fannin on suspicion of drunk driving and driving under the influence of prescription drugs.

I hope Heatherly has not sustained catastrophic injuries as a result of this collision. I pray that he recovers quickly and completely from his injuries.

Car Accidents

There were three fatalities and 354 injuries involving car accidents in Napa, California, according to CHP's 2008 traffic accident statistics. Countywide, during the same year, 15 people died and 770 were injured as a result of car accidents.

Laws and Compensation Issues

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 law states that it is illegal for motorists to operate a vehicle with a blood alcohol level of 0.08 percent. It is also against the law to drive under the influence of recreational or prescription drugs. In this particular case, if Fannin is determined to have been under the influence and at fault for this crash, he could not only face criminal DUI charges, but also be held financially responsible for the victim's injuries and losses.

Injured victims in such cases can seek compensation to cover medical expenses, wage loss and other damages. A knowledgeable San Francisco personal injury lawyer will also advise injured victims about how their own auto insurance policy applies to an incident where the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.

What is your opinion about installing Ignition Interlock Devices (IIDs) in the vehicles of first-time DUI offenders?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.