INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT?

[05-19-2024] Sonoma County, CA – Two People Injured After Two-Vehicle Hit-And-Run Crash Caused by Suspected Drunk Driver in Petaluma

Published May 20, 2024

[05-19-2024] Two People Injured After Two-Vehicle Hit-And-Run Crash Caused by Suspected Drunk Driver in PetalumaTwo people were injured after a two-vehicle hit-and-run crash caused by a suspected drunk driver in Petaluma early Sunday morning, May 19, 2024.

According to the Petaluma Police Department, the incident happened at about 1:17 a.m. around the 1500 block of East Washington Street.

The circumstances behind the collision remain unclear, but PPD suspects that DUI is involved. The driver of one of the vehicles involved reportedly jumped out of his car and tried to flee the crash site.

Police said that they got a call from a resident that the suspect passed through their backyard and jumped their fence. They then saw the man running away on foot into the nearby creek when they arrived at the scene. 

PPD apprehended the fleeing suspect and identified him as 40-year-old Frank M., a Petaluma native. He was arrested on suspicion of DUI causing injury, reckless driving, and injury hit-and-run.

The vehicle that Frank M. struck had two occupants at the time of the accident: a 55-year-old woman and a 58-year-old man. Both of them suffered minor injuries and were taken to a local hospital to recover.

Additional information was not available at this time. Police work is underway.

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.

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