Cell Phone Driving Death Ends in Jail Time for Rohnert Park Resident (CA Vehicle Code 23152(a) and 23152(b))

Rabin Nabizadeh
September 18, 2014

We often hear stories of persons who are arrested on DUI charges (CA Vehicle Code 23152(a) and 23152(b)) that result in someone’s death or serious injury.  However, California law enforcement officials have been cracking down on, not just driving while under the influence, but also driving while distracted.  One recent example of this is the accident for his part in which 30-year-old Rohnert Park resident (name withheld in order to protect the privacy of the accused) has just been sentenced to 1 year in county jail.  He ran into a car on Highway 12 and accidentally caused the death of two occupants in another car.  It seems that he wasn’t texting or even talking on his cell phone.  He says that he simply looked down for just a moment to check an incoming text message and didn’t see the other car.  He was driving a GMC Sierra pickup truck at 53 miles per hour and the other vehicle was a Toyota Camry.  He has also been given 3 years felony probation and been forced to pay upwards of $1 million in restitution to the family of the victims.

In this case, just a few moments of looking downward has changed his life forever.  In California, ‘distracted driving’ laws place a ban on the use of hand held cellular phones or similar devices and on texting while driving (see Senate Bill 1310). This means not only jail time, but also a 3-year drivers license suspension and felony probation.  While on probation, he will not be allowed to consume either drugs or alcohol and will even be banned from entering bars and other places where alcohol is the chief thing for sale.  Violation of the terms of his probation will result in a 12 year and 4 month sentence in state prison.

 

latest news

October 10, 2023
Do You Lose Your License Immediately After a DUI Charge in San Jose?

Driving under the influence (DUI) is a major offense in San Jose. If you’ve been arrested for a DUI, you might be worried about the future of your driver’s license. Following a DUI arrest, you might be wondering what to do next. Knowing your rights and the next steps can significantly impact the outcome of […]

October 9, 2023
San Jose Common Questions About Criminal Defense

Navigating the complexities of criminal law in San Jose can be confusing. Many residents often have questions about their rights, the legal process, and the consequences of a criminal charge. Fortunately, understanding these topics is easier with the correct information. At Summit Defense, our criminal defense lawyers are here to help you. Every criminal offense is […]

May 18, 2023
How To Beat a DUI in California

Being charged with a DUI in California is a serious matter. If you get convicted of a DUI, you spend time in jail, have your license suspended or revoked, and face significant fines and other penalties. A DUI conviction will also appear on your records, which might make it hard for you to secure housing […]