Pedestrian Killed in Costa Mesa DUI Crash

Jose Alcazar-Arellano, 64, was killed in a Costa Mesa pedestrian accident, which officials say, involved a driver who was operating her vehicle under the influence of drugs. According to a news report in the Daily Pilot, the incident occurred the afternoon of June 10, 2016 at the intersection of Newport Boulevard and Ford Road. Police say a Mercedes-Benz SUV veered onto a sidewalk, hitting the pedestrian, smashing through a light pole and a bus stop. Police arrested the SUV’s driver, 45-year-old Anna Marie McPherson, on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter and driving under the influence of drugs.

Tragic Car Versus Pedestrian Crash

The SUV was traveling south on Newport Boulevard when it swerved and went up the sidewalk. Witnesses told investigators that a maintenance worker, later determined to be Alcazar-Arellano, who was walking on the sidewalk heard the noise and turned around in time to see the SUV. It struck him sending him flying about 15 feet. The SUV then rolled over the man and slammed into the bus bench. Paramedics took the victim to an area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family members of Jose Alcazar-Arellano for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Driving Under the Influence of Drugs

According to the 2014 National Survey on Drug Use and Health (NSDUH), 10 million people aged 12 or older reported driving under the influence of illicit drugs during the year prior to being surveyed. The agency’s findings also show that men are more likely than women to drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. And a higher percentage of young adults aged 18 to 25 drive after taking drugs or drinking than do adults 26 or older. Studies have consistently shown negative effects of drugs including marijuana on drivers, including an increase in lane weaving, poor reaction time, and altered attention to the road.

Laws and Liability Issues

Under California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a), driving under the influence of alcohol and/or prescription drugs is an offense. In addition to facing criminal charges, DUI drivers can be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses they cause.

Families of deceased DUI crash victims can file a wrongful death lawsuit against the driver seeking compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love and companionship. An experienced Costa Mesa personal injury lawyer will be able to advise injured victims and their families regarding their legal rights and options.