What Happened in the DUI Motorcycle Crash on I-805 Near San Diego?
On the evening of July 27, 2026, a motorcyclist was seriously injured after being struck by an allegedly intoxicated driver on southbound Interstate 805 near the Palm Avenue exit in San Diego. According to the California Highway Patrol, a sedan driver swerved across lanes and collided with the motorcycle, causing the rider to be thrown from the bike. The motorcyclist was transported to Scripps Mercy Hospital with critical injuries. The sedan driver was arrested at the scene on suspicion of DUI. The CHP's San Diego Area office is investigating the collision and reviewing blood alcohol test results.
If you or a loved one was injured in a DUI-related motorcycle crash, contact DC Law Group today for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
Who Is Liable in a DUI Motorcycle Accident in California?
A driver who causes a crash while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is presumptively negligent under California law. In addition to facing criminal charges for DUI causing injury, the driver is civilly liable for all damages. California's dram shop laws may also impose liability on bars or restaurants that served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated driver. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can pursue claims against the driver and any third party that contributed to the intoxicated driving.
What Compensation Is Available for a Motorcycle Accident Victim?
Motorcycle accident victims may recover medical expenses, lost wages, motorcycle repair or replacement costs, and pain and suffering. Because motorcyclists lack the physical protection of an enclosed vehicle, crash injuries are frequently severe and can include traumatic brain injury, spinal cord damage, road rash, and multiple fractures. In DUI cases, punitive damages may also be available to punish the intoxicated driver and deter future impaired driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What evidence is important in a DUI motorcycle crash case?
CHP incident reports, field sobriety test results, blood alcohol concentration readings, witness statements, and any available traffic camera or dashcam footage are critical. An attorney can issue subpoenas to preserve this evidence and obtain the driver's prior DUI history, if any.
Can I still recover if I was not wearing a helmet?
California law requires motorcyclists to wear a helmet, and failure to do so may reduce your recovery under comparative fault rules. However, California's pure comparative negligence system means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault, though your recovery may be reduced by your percentage of fault.