Being involved in a fatal motor vehicle accident can be a stressful and daunting process. While moving on from such an experience could prove difficult enough as is, should an investigation into the crash lead to allegations of unlawful behavior, the process could become even more harrowing. A 27-year-old man is facing a variety of charges after he was accused of drunk driving following a recent fatal collision in California.
According to reports, authorities responded to the scene of the accident on a recent Tuesday evening. They claim the incident occurred when the driver of a truck failed to stop for a red light upon approaching an intersection. After crossing into the intersection, the truck collided with a man who was attempting to cross the street. Authorities say he was pronounced dead at the scene soon thereafter.
Although police say the driver of the truck chose to flee the scene, they claim they were able to locate the truck and the driver later on. Upon approaching the truck, police allegedly discovered several broken containers of alcohol on the ground nearby. The man believed to have been driving the truck was subsequently taken into custody on suspicion of driving while under the influence and he is reportedly facing numerous charges in relation to the incident.
The penalties for a conviction for drunk driving charges are severe, especially when in relation to a fatal collision. Those who stand accused of similar offenses and wish to better understand their available options and legal rights could benefit from retaining the services of an attorney for advice as soon as possible. An attorney can help a client in California prepare for what comes next and, if a conviction cannot be avoided, assist him or her in pursuing a lesser sentence during court proceedings.