On Saturday, the Costa Mesa Police Department (CMPD) received calls about a traffic crash.
Police officers responded to Mace Ave. and Nutmeg Pl. after a black truck had struck several parked vehicles.
The driver had fled the scene, but officers were able to identify the owner of the truck and located him at his residence.
He was found to be displaying objective signs and symptoms of alcohol intoxication and was promptly arrested.
Legal Penalties
If the driver is found guilty of DUI and hit-and-run, penalties in California may include:
- DUI (Driving Under the Influence):
- First offense: Up to 6 months in jail, fines up to $1,000 (plus penalties and assessments), license suspension, DUI education program, and possible installation of an ignition interlock device.
- Subsequent offenses: Increased jail time, longer license suspension, and higher fines.
- Hit-and-Run (Vehicle Code § 20002):
- If only property damage occurred: Misdemeanor charges, fines up to $1,000, up to 6 months in jail, and restitution to victims.
- If injury occurred: Felony charges, which carry heavier penalties including state prison time.
Impact on Auto Insurance
The suspect’s auto insurance will likely be affected in the following ways:
- Rate Increase: Premiums could rise significantly due to the DUI and hit-and-run.
- Policy Cancellation: The insurer may cancel the policy altogether.
- SR-22 Requirement: The driver may be required to file an SR-22 form to prove financial responsibility, which is costly and mandatory for high-risk drivers.
- Loss of Coverage: Some insurers may refuse to cover the driver in the future.
Impact on Employment
The employment consequences depend on the nature of the suspect’s job:
- If driving is part of the job (e.g., delivery, commercial driving, field work):
- The DUI and hit-and-run could lead to termination or reassignment.
- Loss of a commercial driver’s license (CDL) if applicable.
- General employment:
- Employers may view the arrest as a breach of conduct, especially if the company has strict policies on criminal behavior.
- Background checks for future jobs will show the incident, potentially limiting opportunities.