A 41-year-old man from Twentynine Palms sustained moderate injuries after being rear-ended by a suspected DUI driver in Wonder Valley, San Bernardino County, on Wednesday morning, January 8, 2025.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 5:55 a.m. when 39-year-old Austine T. of Yucca Valley was driving a GMC Yukon eastbound on Twentynine Palms Highway near Ironage Road.
Authorities stated that the driver struck the rear of a Honda Accord as the victim slowed to make a left turn onto Ironage Road. The Honda driver sustained injuries and was transported to Hi-Desert Medical Center for treatment.
Austine T., who suffered minor injuries, was arrested after being found under the influence of drugs. He also had several active felony warrants in Riverside County, including charges of assault with a deadly weapon, brandishing a weapon, and being a felon in possession of a weapon.
He is being held at the West Valley Detention Center on $500,000 bail.
The CHP is investigating the collision.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.