DUI Crash Injures Pedestrian in Fairfield

Fairfield Pedestrian Suffers Major Injuries in Suspected DUI Crash Near Sunset Avenue and East Travis Boulevard

Overview of the Collision

A pedestrian sustained major injuries after being struck by a vehicle in Fairfield on Friday night, October 31, 2025. The crash occurred at approximately 10:15 p.m. near the intersection of Sunset Avenue and East Travis Boulevard. According to Fairfield police, the driver—identified as 57-year-old Monte P.—was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence following the collision. The injured pedestrian was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Authorities have stated that the circumstances of the crash remain under investigation, and no additional details about the pedestrian’s condition were immediately available.

As with any incident involving suspected impairment, the findings of the police investigation, toxicology testing, witness statements, and scene evidence will be important in determining the sequence of events, potential traffic violations, and civil fault. Our thoughts are with the injured pedestrian and their loved ones during this difficult time.

Understanding the Legal Landscape in DUI-Related Pedestrian Accidents

While criminal charges may be pursued when impairment is suspected, injured victims typically must bring a separate civil claim to recover compensation. In California, a civil case seeks to hold a negligent driver financially accountable for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages arising from the crash. When impairment is involved, additional remedies such as punitive damages may be available in certain cases, subject to proof and the facts.

Key legal considerations include:
- Duty of care: California drivers owe a duty to operate safely and to watch for pedestrians, especially at intersections and crosswalks.
- Negligence per se: Operating a vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher violates California law and may support a finding of negligence.
- Comparative fault: Even if a pedestrian is alleged to share some responsibility (for example, crossing outside a crosswalk), California’s comparative negligence system allows recovery proportional to the driver’s degree of fault.
- Punitive damages: In egregious cases, including those involving intoxicated driving, courts may allow punitive damages to punish and deter particularly dangerous conduct.

Pedestrian Rights and Driver Responsibilities in California

California Vehicle Code section 21950 requires drivers to yield the right of way to pedestrians crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection. Drivers must exercise due care and take precautions to avoid collisions, including slowing down and sounding the horn when necessary. Pedestrians also have responsibilities to use due care for their safety and avoid sudden movements into the path of an oncoming vehicle. In practice, liability assessments are highly fact-specific and depend on physical evidence, road design, and witness accounts.

What to Do After a DUI-Related Pedestrian Accident

The immediate aftermath of a crash can be chaotic. The following steps can help protect health, preserve key evidence, and safeguard legal rights:

- Call 911: Report the incident and request medical assistance. First responders will document the scene and prepare an official report.
- Seek prompt medical care: Even if injuries appear minor, timely evaluation creates a medical record linking injuries to the crash and allows early diagnosis.
- Document the scene: If it is safe, photograph vehicle positions, skid marks, debris, roadway lighting and signals, and any visible injuries. Retain clothing and personal items that show damage.
- Identify witnesses: Collect names and contact information for any bystanders who saw or heard the collision or the events leading up to it.
- Preserve electronic evidence: Save dashcam footage, smartphone photos and videos, and any app-based trip data. Nearby businesses and residences may have surveillance footage; time is critical to request preservation.
- Avoid premature statements: Provide necessary facts to police, but avoid speculative statements or social media posts that can be misinterpreted.
- Consult experienced counsel: An attorney can coordinate with investigators, secure time-sensitive evidence such as vehicle event data recorder (EDR) downloads, and communicate with insurers.

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Avian Law Group extends our sincere thoughts to everyone affected by this tragic DUI pedestrian accident. Incidents caused by impaired driving are entirely preventable and serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of making responsible choices behind the wheel.

Our firm remains steadfast in advocating for victims of reckless and negligent behavior. We are committed to helping injured individuals and their families pursue justice, secure fair compensation, and find the support they need on the road to recovery.

If you or someone you love has been injured in a DUI-related accident, the experienced attorneys at Avian Law Group are here to help. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about your legal rights and options for moving forward.