Modesto, CA — Authorities have arrested 22-year-old Jasneal Singh Hayer of Modesto on suspicion of DUI, hit-and-run, and vehicular manslaughter following a fatal pedestrian collision on Saturday night, November 23, 2024, according to The Modesto Bee.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the accident occurred around 9:10 PM on South Ninth Street, just north of Hatch Road. Officers responding to the scene discovered a man lying in the roadway who was pronounced deceased by medics.
While investigating, officers observed a 2020 Mercedes sedan leaving the scene and heading southbound on Highway 99. They pulled the vehicle over and found it to be operated by Hayer.
CHP officers noted significant front-end damage to the Mercedes, consistent with involvement in the collision. Investigators determined that Hayer was under the influence at the time of the crash.
Hayer was arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center on charges of felony DUI, hit-and-run, and vehicular manslaughter.
The identity of the deceased pedestrian has not yet been released, pending notification of next of kin.
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.”
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a Duty of Care towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
Should the at-fault driver avoid legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, feel free to contact Maison Law for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.