Driver in Fatal Accident Charged with Felony Manslaughter

The four men involved in a fatal car accident in Woodland, California on January 6 have a history of alcohol-related offenses, according to the Daily Democrat in Woodland. Their convictions include driving under the influence, driving on a suspended license, possession of or consuming alcohol while underage and reckless driving, according to Officer Bryan Konvalin of the California Highway Patrol.

The CHP did not release the identities or health conditions of all those involved, and details about the crash remain unknown. They did say that James Dakota Lee Black, 21, suffered multiple broken bones and a possible traumatic brain injury. Paramedics flew him to Kaiser South Hospital in Sacramento. Rovert Dale Sunderland III, 25, died at the scene. The driver, identified as 22-year-old Ryan Scott Baird, was the only one wearing his safety belt and the fire department had to cut him free. Paramedics rushed him to University of California-Davis Hospital. Police arrested Baird on suspicion of DUI and felony manslaughter after his release.

Possible tort reform in California could put a cap on the damages awarded in wrongful death cases such as this one. There is no excuse for risking the lives of so many people by driving drunk.

Bonnici Law Group, APC—San Diego personal injury attorney.