Last night around 8:30 p.m., police officers responded to a wrong-way collision at Highland & Orangethorpe, according to the Fullerton Police Department.
- A sedan, driven by a DUI suspect driving the wrong direction in lanes, collided with an SUV carrying eight people, including children.
- Seven of the SUV occupants were transported to area hospitals for treatment
- The sedan driver was arrested for DUI.
This crash is a sobering reminder: one reckless choice can harm so many. The FPD advises that you please plan ahead — use a rideshare, call a friend, or designate a sober driver.
In California, a DUI driver who causes injury—especially in a wrong-way crash involving multiple victims, including children—faces serious legal consequences. Here’s a summary of the penalties that may apply:
Criminal Charges
The driver will likely be charged under California Vehicle Code 23153, which covers DUI causing injury. This can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the injuries and the driver’s prior record.
Misdemeanor DUI with Injury
- Fines: $390 to $5,000
- Jail time: Up to 1 year in county jail
- License suspension
- Mandatory DUI education program
- Restitution: Payment to victims for medical bills and other losses
Felony DUI with Injury
- Prison time: 16 months to 4 years, with additional time (up to 3 years per victim) if multiple people were injured
- Fines: Substantial, often exceeding $5,000
- Extended license suspension or revocation
- Mandatory DUI education and treatment programs
- Restitution to victims
- Permanent criminal record
Aggravating Factors
These can lead to enhanced penalties:
- High BAC (well above 0.08%)
- Presence of minors in the vehicle
- Severe injuries (e.g., permanent disability)
- Prior DUI convictions
Administrative Penalties
Separate from the court case, the DMV may:
- Automatically suspend the driver’s license
- Require installation of an ignition interlock device (IID) for repeat offenders or those who caused injury
Financial Impact
The total cost of a DUI conviction—including fines, fees, insurance hikes, and IID costs—can exceed $18,000, even for a first offense