A 41-year-old man who sustained major injuries in a motorcycle accident in Redding has been identified as Dennis Whitestone. The Record Searchlight reports that the crash happened September 3, 2010 when 39-year-old Caryn Meridith, who was driving a GMC SUV, pulled out of a driveway and into the path of the motorcyclist. Police suspect Meridith was under the influence and arrested her. Whitestone was hospitalized with serious injuries.

I hope Whitestone did not sustain catastrophic injuries in this crash. I pray that he recovers quickly and fully from his injuries.

DUI Statistics and Law

Five fatalities and 69 injuries were reported as a result of DUI collisions in Redding in 2008, according to California Highway Patrol's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In Shasta County as a whole, nine people died and 160 were injured due to alcohol-related crashes during the same year.

Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is a serious crime under California law. According to California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a): "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."

Claim for Compensation

In this case, if Meridith is determined to have been at fault, then, she could be held criminally responsible and civilly liable for the accident and injuries caused. DUI accident victims can seek compensation from the at-fault party to cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, pain and suffering, and other related damages. A reputed
California personal injury lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families about how to pursue their rights. The best personal injury law firms will offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.

Do you believe that helmets should be required for all motorcycle riders in the United States? For more information about the dangers of drunk driving, please visit the Mothers Against Drunk Driving web site at www.madd.org.

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.