The authorities have tracked down a hit-and-run driver suspected of causing a San Francisco area car accident, the afternoon of August 7, 2011. According to Marin Independent Journal, the hit-and-run car accident occurred on Highway 101 in San Rafael. Officials say 54-year-old Marc Anthony Sicilano was under the influence of alcohol when he hit another car entering from the highway onramp. Upon seeing the damage to the other vehicle, Sicilano drove away. The victim of this collision was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. The suspect is facing DUI and hit-and-run charges in connection with this incident.

My thoughts and prayers are with the injured victim of this Marin County hit-and-run car accident. I wish this person the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. I'm relieved to note that this hit-and-run suspect was quickly apprehended.

DUI Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol’s 2009 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), 24 people were injured in San Rafael DUI collisions. During that same year, there were five fatalities and 91 injuries reported as a result of alcohol-related collisions in Marin County.

Traffic Violations

It appears that this crash occurred because one of the drivers was under the influence of alcohol. 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."

Additionally, the driver left the scene of the crash, leaving an injured victim exposed to additional danger. Drivers are required by law to stop, remain at the scene, and obtain medical attention for those who are injured in an accident. California Vehicle Code Section 20001 (a) states: "The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident." Negligent drivers may be held liable for the damages they cause.

Liability Issues
Injured victims in such cases would be well-advised to contact an experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer, who has a successful track record of holding drunk drivers financially responsible. Victims can seek compensation from the at-fault driver for medical expenses, lost wages, hospitalization, physical therapy, and other damages. For more information about the dangers of driving under the influence, please visit the Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) web site at www.madd.org.