The unlucky historic fountain in Old Towne Orange was damaged yet again by another DUI driver who slammed into it early on Sunday morning.
The DUI driver tried to race through the Orange Circle, which surrounds the fountain, losing control and then ramming through bushes, benches, and barriers before scraping the side of the fountain.
The DUI driver was trying to go east through the Orange Circle but he failed to turn, plowing straight into the picturesque park. He even took out a metal chain barrier and a bench.
The last time the fountain was struck by a driver was back in March of 2023, when a carjacker who was being pursued by police flipped his vehicle several times after colliding at full speed with the fountain.
Just five months later, an SUV struck a tree near the fountain and the driver had to be rescued as the vehicle burned.
In this latest incident there were no injuries were reported. The DUI driver however did not fare well as he was was arrested.
The park is likely to be repaired quickly as the Orange International Street Fair is coming up soon, on Labor Day weekend, in that area, starting on Friday, August 29.
Here’s a breakdown of what the DUI driver in Old Towne Orange could now be facing:
Legal Penalties:
- First-time DUI (misdemeanor) in California typically includes:
- Up to 6 months in jail
- Fines between $390 and $1,000 (plus thousands more in fees and assessments)
- License suspension for 6 months
- Mandatory DUI education program
- Probation for 3 to 5 years
Property Damage Consequences:
- Even though DUI laws don’t add extra criminal charges for property damage, the judge can impose tougher penalties.
- The driver will likely be ordered to pay restitution for damage to the fountain, benches, barriers, and landscaping.
- If the damage is extensive or the driver has prior offenses, the charge could be elevated to a felony, which carries longer jail time.
Insurance Impact:
- The driver’s insurance rates will skyrocket—often by 50% or more.
- The insurer may drop coverage entirely, forcing the driver to seek high-risk insurance (SR-22).
- The driver will likely be personally liable for damages if insurance doesn’t cover everything.
This incident could follow the driver for years, both legally and financially.