Police arrested an individual for allegedly driving while under the influence and killing his passenger in a motor vehicle accident in California. The driver also suffered injuries in the crash. The accident occurred along Byron Highway late at night on a recent Saturday.

Events leading up to the alleged DUI accident

The reported drunk driving accident happened at about 11:07 p.m. Police said a sport utility vehicle was going south on the highway and suddenly left the roadway. The SUV then apparently collided with an embankment.

The passenger died at the crash scene. The driver was transported to a nearby hospital with major injuries. Police arrested the driver at the hospital and accused him of drunk driving in connection with the accident.

Legal recourse

The individual accused of drinking and driving may choose to fight these criminal charges in court. California prosecutors must prove each charge beyond a reasonable doubt — a very high standard — before a conviction can occur. Rather than going to court, the accused individual may opt to seek a plea deal, which might result in a lighter charge and a more lenient sentence than what may result from a guilty verdict after trial. In either situation, an attorney can help the accused individual pursue the most personally favorable outcome possible. The attorney will work to ensure the client’s rights and best interests are protected during each step of the legal proceeding.