Salinas, CA – According to KSBW, a fatal crash took the life of 81-year-old Arthur Loring Schoenstadt of Salinas on Sunday evening, October 6, 2024.
The crash, which occurred around 5:05 PM on Reservation Road just south of East Garrison Drive, involved a head-on collision between Schoenstadt’s gray Toyota and a white Acura.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the Acura, driven by an unidentified individual, veered into the northbound lane, crashing into Schoenstadt’s. Tragically, Schoenstadt succumbed to his wounds and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Acura, whose identity has not been released, was taken to Natividad Medical Center with injuries.
CHP suspects that the driver of the Acura was under the influence at the time of the crash. Once released from the hospital, they are expected to face charges, including DUI, with possible vehicular manslaughter charges depending on the investigation and any prior offenses.
Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances leading up to the crash.
Wrongful Death Claims
Even if a fatal accident doesn’t lead to criminal charges, families who lose a loved one can still file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This compensation can help cover medical bills, funeral costs, and lost income that the family depended on.
However, insurance companies will always try to pay as little as possible, making it difficult for families to receive the full amount they deserve. So, having an experienced personal injury attorney is essential to receive fair compensation and justice for your loved one.
California DUI Law
Section 23153(a) of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) states that it is illegal for any driver to “Operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, cause bodily injury to someone else.”
