On Saturday, police officers investigated a single-vehicle traffic collision in the area of Jamboree and Michelson, according to the Irvine Police Department.
The officers found the driver trapped inside the vehicle, and a crew from the OCFA were able to free him.
The 41-year-old driver from San Clemente was taken to a local hospital for minor injuries and was arrested for DUI.
The IPD Traffic Unit will conduct a DUI and driver’s license checkpoint this Friday from 7:00 p.m. to about 2:00 a.m. in the area of Jamboree and Dupont, as part of their commitment to reducing injuries and preventing fatalities caused by impaired drivers.
Plan ahead for a fun night out. Use a designated driver or rideshare app, and don’t hesitate to call 911 if you spot a drunk driver.
Here are the likely penalties the 41-year-old driver faces under California law for a DUI involving an accident with injuries:
- Charge Type: DUI causing injury under California Vehicle Code §23153, which is a “wobbler” offense (can be a misdemeanor or felony depending on circumstances).
- Misdemeanor Penalties (common for first offense with minor injuries):
- Fines: $390 to $5,000 plus court assessments.
- Jail: Up to 1 year in county jail.
- Probation: Typically 3 to 5 years.
- DUI education program: 3, 18, or 30 months depending on BAC and court order.
- License suspension: 1 to 3 years, with possible ignition interlock device requirement.
- Felony Penalties (if injuries are severe or prior DUIs exist):
- State prison: 16 months to 4 years (plus extra time for multiple victims).
- Fines: $1,015 to $5,000.
- Longer license suspension and mandatory IID.
- Restitution: Court will likely order payment to the injured party for medical bills and other losses.
- Indirect Consequences:
- Increased insurance premiums and SR-22 filing requirement.
- Permanent criminal record (especially if felony).