Despite the efforts of groups like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) to educate people about the deadly consequences of driving while under the influence of alcohol, some people simply do not value the lives of others enough to inconvenience themselves.  That was the situation Sunday Morning on Stockton Boulevard in Sacramento when a mother and child were killed in a Sacramento DUI accident.  At around 4:25 a.m., 23-yeard-old Nancy Naranjo was stopped at a red light in her Honda Accord with her  8 month old son Joshua riding in a car seat when their vehicle was rear ended at a high rate of speed by a Toyota 4-Runner being driven by 22 year old Xieng Kham.   The impact of the collision propelled both cars through the intersection and across two lanes of traffic. The mother and infant were declared dead at the scene.

Although this Sacramento car accident remains under investigation, police arrested Mr. Kham at the scene for suspicion of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

Drunk Driving Accidents in California

When a DUI accident results in serious bodily injury or death, California law provides for felony charges against the offender.  Despite these serious consequences, California Highway Patrol statistics indicate that in 2008 alone, there were 1,355 fatal collisions caused by drunk drivers. For some reason, it remains almost tacitly acceptable to drive after drinking in our society as long as you don’t get caught.  The price that is paid is too high.  Since some people don’t seem to be getting the message, California should do more to prevent DUI related deaths , including stiffer penalties for all offenders, alcohol treatment programs, ignition locks, and programs like mandatory designated drivers.

Sacramento Personal Injury Attorneys

In addition, all victims and families of DUI accidents should to consult a reputable Sacramento personal injury attorney, who will conduct a thorough investigation of the collision and hold the offending driver accountable in the civil justice system for their actions.  A qualified California personal injury attorney can advise you regarding a claim for damages, including recovery of medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.  Victims should know their rights under the law and any applicable insurance policies.  Family members of a deceased victim may have a wrongful death claim, which includes funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.

The Demas Law Group personal injury law firm is not currently representing anyone mentioned in this article at the time it was posted. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your legal rights and options, call us or another well recognized and respected personal injury law firm. Please do not rely or act solely upon the information provided in this article. Please consider getting a consultation immediately. The best personal injury law firms will provide a free consultation. Demas Law Group will provide a free, confidential consultation to the persons who were not at fault named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.