Sameer Alaama, 42, was arrested on suspicion of drunk driving after officials say he caused a car accident in Orange County. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the accident occurred the morning of August 31, 2010 on the southbound 57 Freeway, near Rolling Hills Drive, in Fullerton. California Highway Patrol officials say Alaama was driving his Lexus ES330 in the far right lane when he swerved and hit the back of a parked big rig.
Alaama then went across all four traffic lanes before striking the right side of a Toyota Tacoma. Alaama was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence. It is not clear if the driver of the big rig or the occupants of the pickup truck were injured. Alaama was transported to a hospital for treatment and arrested later.
I hope no one was seriously injured in this collision. I wish the injured victims, if any, the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. It is also important for those involved in such accidents to get thoroughly checked out for any injuries. In many accidents, injuries do not become apparent until days after the crash.
DUI Statistics and Laws
According to CHP's 2008 traffic accident statistics, there was one death and 66 injuries involving DUI collisions in Fullerton. In Orange County as a whole, 62 people died and 1,492 were injured as a result of alcohol-related crashes in 2008.
It is illegal under California law to drive with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08 percent or higher. 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."
Victims' Claim for Compensation
In such cases, it would be in victims' best interests to seek the counsel of an experienced Orange County personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. DUI victims could seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization, physical therapy and other related damages.
A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also be able to advise victims about how their car insurance policy might apply to an incident involving an at-fault motorist who is uninsured or underinsured. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.
Are you in favor of a law that requires ignition interlock devices for first-time DUI offenders?
The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.
SLS Consulting