A San Diego man, accused of driving the wrong way in San Ysidro was arrested on suspicion of drunken driving after slamming into an oncoming minivan and killing its driver on July 26th.
Fernando Goneortiz, 29, could face felony charges, specifically charges of gross vehicular manslaughter, for the crash that occurred just before noon on Wednesday on southbound Interstate 805 near where it merges with southbound Interstate 5. The two freeways come together less than a mile from the U.S.-Mexico border.
Goneortiz’ white Audi was traveling the wrong way when it struck a blue Honda Odyssey. The Honda driver died at the scene and his name has not been released.
Goneortiz was transported to the hospital to be treated for his non-life-threatening injuries and remained in the hospital Thursday in CHP custody according to officials. He will be booked into jail after he is medically cleared.
The CHP’s online incident log indicates that a 911 call was made reporting a white car about to enter Mexico, the driver however made a U-turn, headed north and crashed.
Officers are still investigating the crash and the actions that took place prior to the driver driving northbound in the southbound lanes.
“It’s extremely unfortunate that a person has lost their life due to a negligent driver that also put so many others in jeopardy when he operated his vehicle under the influence,” said Gerald Singleton personal injury attorney at Singleton Schreiber. “This incident is a harsh reminder of the consequences drivers face when making the decision to operate their vehicles in that manner, lives are lost, and the lives of many others are completely derailed.”
Anyone who’s been injured by a drunk driver should contact the car accident lawyers at Singleton Schreiber by calling (619) 771-3473 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.
Fatal DUI Crashes in San Diego
San Diego, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and thriving community, has unfortunately also witnessed the devastating consequences of DUI (Driving Under the Influence) crashes. These accidents, resulting from the combination of alcohol and impaired driving, have left families shattered and communities grieving.
DUI crashes in San Diego have taken a heavy toll on both human lives and the local community. Each fatal accident leaves behind heartbroken families mourning the loss of loved ones, while the survivors may suffer from life-altering injuries. These incidents not only devastate individual families but also affect the broader community, leading to a collective call for action to prevent further tragedies.
According to the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), San Diego County had recorded a significant number of alcohol-involved collisions. Despite the efforts of law enforcement and awareness campaigns, drunk driving remains a persistent problem in the region.
To combat the issue of DUI crashes, local authorities and organizations have been actively engaging in awareness and education campaigns. These initiatives aim to highlight the dangers of drinking and driving, discourage impaired driving behavior, and promote safer alternatives, such as designated drivers, rideshare services, or public transportation.
The fight against fatal DUI crashes doesn’t rest solely on the shoulders of law enforcement and authorities. Community involvement plays a crucial role in preventing these tragedies. By supporting and participating in local awareness programs, advocating for stricter DUI laws, and encouraging responsible decision-making, residents of San Diego can collectively contribute to creating safer roads for everyone.
In addition to the heartbreak and loss experienced by victims’ families, DUI offenders face severe legal consequences. California has strict DUI laws, and individuals caught driving under the influence can face hefty fines, license suspension or revocation, mandatory DUI classes, and even imprisonment, especially in cases involving fatalities. However, despite these penalties, some individuals still take the risk, putting lives at stake.
Fatal DUI crashes in San Diego serve as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol. The loss of lives and the pain inflicted upon families and communities emphasize the urgency to address this issue proactively. By fostering a culture of responsible decision-making, increasing awareness, and implementing strict measures against DUI offenders, we can collectively work towards creating safer roads and preventing future tragedies. Let us remember that the choice to drive sober is not just a personal responsibility but a commitment to safeguarding the lives of others and ensuring a safer San Diego for all.
“My hope is that the family of the victim that lost their life due to the gross negligence of the DUI driver receive the justice and financial compensation they are rightfully owed,” added Mr. Singleton. “Seeking out a knowledgeable attorney that can help aid in this tragic incident and all of its legal complexities is the best course of action that the family can take at the time.”
Anyone who’s been injured by a drunk driver should contact the car accident lawyers at Singleton Schreiber by calling (619) 771-3473 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.
