San Diego Car Accident Lawyer Blog

Steve Gomez, 15, was killed in a fatal Santa Ana car accident that occurred on November 23, 2010, in Orange County, approximately 130 miles from San Diego. According to authorities, this fatal auto accident occurred when Jose Luis Gomez, 20, drove his 2007 Chevy Impala at a high rate of speed, lost control of the vehicle, and crashed it into a tree.

Steve Gomez was a front seat passenger in Jose Gomez’s car and was pronounced dead at the accident scene. Jose Gomez and two other passengers traveling in the car suffered serious injuries and were transported to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The officials stated that the driver, Jose Gomez was under the influence of drugs after “huffing” (inhaling from a paper bag or other container) automotive grade nitrous oxide just before the accident occurred. Police believe that he was probably inhaling the substance while driving the car.

If it is found that the car driver was indeed driving under influence of drugs or other intoxicants, then he will be held liable for Steve Gomez’s wrongful death. Jose Gomez will most likely violated California Vehicle Code Section 23152(a) which states that “It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle.”

Jose Gomez may be held liable to pay victim’s family with compensation to cover cost of funeral and burial, loss of anticipated earnings of the deceased, loss of love and compassion, and other accident related damages.The victim’s family can seek counsel from an experienced Orange County personal injury lawyer who would assure that the guilty is brought to justice.