DUI-Related Collision Raises Safety Concerns at Busy Sacramento Intersection 1

A suspected DUI crash occurred Monday morning at the intersection of Folsom Boulevard and Power Inn Road in Sacramento’s College/Glen neighbourhood, highlighting ongoing concerns about impaired driving in the area.

Emergency responders arrived at the scene at approximately 11:58 a.m. following reports of a two-vehicle collision. The incident occurred near Sacramento State University, an area that typically experiences heavy traffic during weekday hours.

According to initial reports, one male driver was transported to a local hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the crash. Law enforcement officials indicated that driving under the influence is suspected to be a contributing factor in the collision.

The Impact of DUI Accidents in Sacramento

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of impaired driving. DUI-related crashes continue to be a significant concern in Sacramento County, with such accidents often resulting in serious injuries or fatalities.

For those involved in accidents with impaired drivers, it’s crucial to understand your rights and the legal options available. Victims may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Vehicle damage
  • Pain and suffering
  • Rehabilitation costs

Safety Recommendations for Folsom Boulevard Drivers

The intersection of Folsom Boulevard and Power Inn Road is a major thoroughfare in Sacramento. Drivers are advised to:

  • Remain vigilant, especially during peak hours
  • Follow traffic signals carefully
  • Maintain safe following distances
  • Report suspected impaired drivers to law enforcement
  • Use rideshare services or designated drivers when consuming alcohol

Given the intersection’s proximity to Sacramento State University and multiple shopping centres, drivers should exercise additional caution during class change times and peak shopping hours. The combination of student foot traffic, public transit stops, and multiple turn lanes requires heightened awareness. 

Motorists should pay particular attention to pedestrians crossing at crosswalks and watch for sudden stops from buses and vehicles making turns into shopping centres. During evening hours, reduced visibility makes it especially important to observe posted speed limits and maintain proper lighting.

Steps to Take After a DUI-Related Accident

If you’re involved in an accident with a suspected impaired driver:

  1. Ensure your immediate safety and seek medical attention
  2. Contact law enforcement immediately
  3. Document the scene if possible
  4. Gather witness information
  5. Contact your insurance company
  6. Consult with a personal injury attorney

It’s important to note that the minutes following a DUI-related accident are crucial for building a strong legal case. If you suspect the other driver is impaired, make mental notes of their behaviour, speech patterns, and physical movements. However, maintain a safe distance and avoid confrontation, as impaired individuals may be unpredictable. 

Take photos or videos of the scene from a safe position, paying special attention to skid marks, vehicle positions, and any open containers or other evidence that may be visible. These details can be invaluable for both law enforcement and your legal representation in securing appropriate compensation for your damages.

Legal Implications for DUI Accidents

When alcohol is involved in a collision, the legal ramifications extend beyond typical accident claims. Impaired drivers may face:

  • Criminal charges
  • License suspension
  • Substantial fines
  • Potential jail time
  • Civil liability for damages

In California, catastrophic DUI accidents involving injuries can result in enhanced penalties under Vehicle Code 23153. The presence of injuries can elevate a misdemeanour DUI to a felony charge, potentially leading to state prison time and fines up to $5,000. Additionally, insurance companies often treat DUI accidents differently than standard collisions, frequently denying coverage or raising premiums significantly. Victims of DUI accidents may also be eligible to pursue punitive damages, which are additional monetary penalties designed to punish particularly reckless behaviour and deter future incidents.

A catastrophic injury settlement calculator serves as a critical starting tool for legal professionals and clients to understand the potential value range of severe injury claims. Unlike simple calculators for minor injuries, these specialized tools incorporate complex variables including projected lifetime medical care, rehabilitation costs, lost earning capacity, necessary home modifications, and ongoing therapeutic needs. 

However, it’s important to understand that while these calculators provide valuable baseline estimates by analyzing data from similar cases and settlements, they cannot fully capture the human impact or jurisdiction-specific factors that may affect settlement values. An experienced GJEL accident attorney can account for unique case factors, local legal precedents, and the full scope of a victim’s needs. Talk to an experienced GJEL accident attorney and get the compensation you deserve.

“As an accident attorney who has spent decades helping injury victims throughout Sacramento, I understand how devastating and disorienting a DUI collision can be. If you or a loved one were injured in this Folsom Boulevard crash, please know that you don’t have to navigate this challenging time alone. The physical, emotional, and financial impacts of a DUI accident can be overwhelming, but there are clear legal pathways to help you recover and rebuild. It’s crucial to focus on your medical care first, but don’t wait too long to understand your legal rights. Evidence needs to be preserved quickly, and there are strict timelines for filing claims. We’re here to handle the legal complexities while you focus on healing. Contact our office for a free consultation – we’ll help you understand your options and fight to secure the full compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.”- Andy Gillin, GJEL Accident Attorney

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident, don’t face the insurance companies alone. GJEL Accident Attorneys brings over 40 years of experience and a proven 99% success rate to your case. Our award-winning legal team has recovered more than $950 million for injured clients throughout Sacramento and Northern California, with absolutely no upfront costs and no fees unless we win your case. Call us today at +1 415-986-4777 for a free, no-obligation consultation, or visit our Fresno office to talk to an experienced GJEL accident attorney. Remember, time limits apply to injury claims – the sooner you reach out, the better we can protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Important Local Resources for Sacramento Accident Victims

Law Enforcement & Traffic Authorities

Sacramento Police Department

California Highway Patrol – Sacramento Office

  • Emergency: 911
  • Office: (916) 681-2300
  • Address: 6 Massie Court, Sacramento, CA 95823
  • Website: CHP Sacramento

Sacramento Department of Transportation

  • Traffic Operations Center: (916) 808-5768
  • Street Maintenance: (916) 808-6333
  • Website: Sacramento DOT

Accident Reports & Records

  • Request accident reports online: Sacramento Police Records
  • Traffic collision reports are typically available 7-10 business days after the incident
  • Records Division Phone: (916) 808-0620

Additional Resources

  • Sacramento County Superior Court: Traffic Division
  • California DMV Sacramento Office: (800) 777-0133
  • Sacramento County District Attorney’s Office: (916) 874-6218

In the wake of this serious collision at Folsom Boulevard and Power Inn Road, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing dangers of impaired driving in our Sacramento community. If you or a loved one were involved in this accident or any similar incident, remember that time is crucial in protecting your legal rights. GJEL Accident Attorneys stands ready to help with decades of experience handling DUI-related injury cases. Contact us at +1 415-986-4777 for a free legal consultation, and let our experienced team fight for the compensation you deserve while you focus on recovery. Your well-being is our priority, and we’re here to help guide you through every step of the legal process.

Author Photo

Andy Gillin received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his law degree from the University of Chicago. He is the managing partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has written and lectured in the field of plaintiffs’ personal injury law for numerous organizations. Since 1972 he has been helping seriously injured victims throughout northern California fight & win their personal injury cases. Andy is one of the top awarded & recognized wrongful death lawyers in northern California.