Two people were injured following a DUI collision involving a police pursuit in Santa Barbara on Tuesday morning, August 6, 2024.
According to the Santa Barbara Police Department, the incident occurred around 11 a.m. near Bath Street and West Carrillo Street.
Police said they spotted a vehicle that had been reported stolen and was being driven near Bath Street and West Carrillo Street. The officer attempted to pull over the vehicle, but the driver refused to stop, leading to a short pursuit. The pursuit reportedly ended with the stolen vehicle colliding with a parked car with two occupants.
Both occupants of the parked vehicle sustained minor injuries and were treated by paramedics at the scene. The authorities identified neither of the two.
Three teens were found in the stolen vehicle: a 16-year-old male driver and two female passengers, aged 15 and 17. All three were detained. The 16-year-old driver is being booked for several charges, including felony hit-and-run, felony DUI, and car theft.
Meanwhile, the two female passengers were released to their guardians, and their charges were referred to the Santa Barbara County Juvenile Probation Department.
The investigation into the accident continues.
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.
