DUI Crash Kills Two on Skid Row

A teenaged driver was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence after a crash that killed two on Skid Row late Sunday night in Los Angeles.

The crash was reported just after midnight at the intersection of Crocker and Fourth Streets, where the Los Angeles Police Department said 19 year old Carmen Elena Chavez lost control of her 1989 Mercedes-Benz trying to make a right hand turn at too great a speed.

Unable to complete the maneuver, the vehicle jumped onto the curb and struck a man and a woman who were sleeping on the sidewalk. They were dragged more than 50 feet before finally coming to rest. Both were pronounced dead at the scene by responding officers. Their identities have not been released.

According to officers at the scene, there were five people inside the car at the time of the crash. Four of them initially ran after the accident, as reported by witnesses, by Carmen Chavez, another woman a man returned and were taken into custody.

Chavez was administered a field sobriety test upon returning, which she promptly failed. She was then arrested and booked on two counts of vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence of alcohol. Her bail was set at $100,000.

This fatal accident again demonstrates the dangers of drinking and driving. Despite the festivities of a holiday like Halloween, it is important to remain safe and responsible. Though Chavez is likely to face harsh punishment for taking the lives of two Skid Row inhabitants, she is extremely fortunate to not suffer deadly injuries herself.

Driving under the influence puts everyone on the road in danger, and is never worth the risk. For those injured in such accidents, there is a painful and lengthy recovery process ahead of them. Fortunately, there are legal protections in place to get them the help they need.

Armed with the assistance of a highly trained Los Angeles car accident lawyer, compensation can be awarded from those responsible for the crash. This compensation can allow victims to afford medical bills and car repair payments, and replace wages lost from time spent away from work.

At AA Accident Attorneys, we can lead you through the legal process and get you the full amount that you deserve. If cost is a concern, rest easy, as we will not charge you anything for our services until your case is won. If we do not collect on your case, you will not owe us a thing. Call us right away for a free evaluation and to learn how our accident lawyers can help you!