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Lancaster, California – Authorities have identified the young man killed in a multi-vehicle collision in Lancaster Monday evening that investigators say was caused by a suspected drunk or drug-impaired driver.
The Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s Office confirmed the victim as Sergio Ortega, 18, of Little Rock. The fatal crash happened around 6:50 p.m. near 90th Street East and Palmdale Boulevard, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Investigators say a maroon Kia, driven by 47-year-old M. Monroy of Palmdale, was speeding southbound on 90th Street East when it ran a red light at the intersection. The Kia entered the path of a gray Infiniti G35 traveling eastbound on Palmdale Boulevard. The force of the collision sent the Infiniti into a white Chevrolet Avalanche pickup that was waiting at the red light.
Ortega, who was in the Infiniti, was pronounced dead at the scene. A female passenger suffered minor injuries. The 69-year-old driver of the Chevrolet, identified as G. Martinez of Lancaster, was unharmed.
Monroy was transported to a hospital with severe injuries and later arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
The CHP is urging anyone with information about the crash to contact Officer M. Sandoval at the Antelope Valley Area Office at 661-743-6060. After business hours, tips can be directed to the Los Angeles Traffic Management Center at 323-259-3200.
How Much Compensation Can You Get After a DUI Death Accident?
When a loved one is killed in a DUI accident, surviving family members may be entitled to significant financial compensation through a wrongful death claim. The exact amount varies depending on factors such as the severity of financial losses, medical expenses prior to death, funeral costs, and the emotional and economic support the victim would have provided to their family.
Working with experienced wrongful death attorneys is essential to determine the full scope of damages. In many cases, families can seek compensation for:
- Medical expenses related to the crash
- Funeral and burial costs
- Loss of income and future financial support
- Pain and suffering, including emotional distress and loss of companionship
Because DUI crashes are caused by negligence or reckless behavior, families may also pursue punitive damages, which are designed to punish the offender and deter similar conduct.
If you are navigating the aftermath of a fatal DUI accident, consulting both dui accident attorneys and car accident lawyers in California can give you the guidance needed to maximize your claim. Families in Southern California often turn to a trusted Los Angeles car accident attorney for the experience and resources required in these complex cases.
At Megeredchian Law, we understand the devastating impact of losing a loved one to a drunk driver. Our team will fight tirelessly to recover the maximum compensation available for your family.Call us today at (866) 359-0807 for a free consultation.