A motorist suffered critical injuries following a two-vehicle DUI hit-and-run crash in Cathedral City late Saturday evening, December 14, 2024.
According to Cathedral City Police Commander Jon Enos, the crash occurred around 10:40 p.m. on Date Palm Drive and Buddy Rogers Avenue.
Officers arrived to find a severely injured motorist who was transported to Desert Regional Medical Center in critical condition.
Investigators revealed that 46-year-old Fermin G. was driving southbound on Date Palm Drive when he ran a red light at Buddy Rogers Avenue, colliding with another vehicle turning northbound.
The suspect fled the scene on foot without assisting the injured victim or contacting emergency services. Authorities located and arrested him later that night.
The at-fault driver is suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and was booked into Riverside County Jail on charges of felony DUI and felony hit-and-run.
The investigation is ongoing.
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.