21-Year-Old Woman Killed in Six-Car Crash on 210 Freeway; Driver Arrested on DUI

EMT paramedics in a rescue operation after a car crash

December 16, 2019

Ellis Law Corporation

News

A 21-year-old woman was killed in a six-car crash on the 210 Freeway in the early morning hours of December 16. The victim, identified as Jennifer Gainer Goldsbury, 21, was a resident of Los Angeles.

The accident occurred in Duarte at approximately 2:40 a.m., when a Toyota Highlander in which Ms. Goldsbury was riding was apparently hit by a Ford Mustang. Ms. Goldsbury was ejected from the Highlander. The Mustang’s driver was arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol.

The accident apparently began as a solo crash, when a Ford Fusion collided with a guardrail and was then hit by a Ford Escape, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). It was not known which car hit the Mustang before it hit the Highlander.

The Fusion’s driver apparently left the scene before CHP arrived.
All westbound lanes of the 210 were shut down due to the accident.

DUIs and California Law

Although it is not known for certain what caused the fatal crash, some observations can be made about DUI and the law in California.

Driving under the influence of alcohol or other substances is a serious crime. For a first time offense, the penalties can be jail time of up to six months and a fine of up to $1,000, as well as possible license suspension.

The penalties go up for subsequent offenses.

Wrongful Death

The law in our state permits close family members to file a lawsuit if the death of a loved one has been caused by the negligence of another party. If a car accident has been caused by DUI-impaired driving, speeding, or some other negligent act by a driver, a wrongful death suit can be filed by close family members, including a surviving spouse, domestic partner, child, grandchild, or any minor who lived in the household for six months and was dependent on the decedent for at least half of his or her support.

Of course, a wrongful death suit cannot bring a loved one back or erase the tragedy of their untimely passing. It is, however, designed to ease the financial burden of a family deprived of a loved one.

Wrongful death cases take place in civil court. They are not related to any criminal charges or potential trials. The dropping of a criminal charge or a reduced sentence has no bearing on a wrongful death lawsuit because they are entirely separate cases.

A Los Angeles Wrongful Death Attorney Can Help In Your Time of Need

A loved one being killed by a negligent driver in a car accident is a tragedy. Ellis Law Corporation can help you fight to see that justice is done. Please call today for a free initial appointment to discuss your case with an experienced Los Angeles wrongful death lawyer.

Additional Resources: