A reckless act of impaired driving led to a four-vehicle crash in downtown Salt Lake City on Friday night, resulting in an overturned car and the arrest of an 18-year-old driver.
The collision occurred just before 9:00 p.m. at the intersection of 400 South and State Street. According to Salt Lake City Police, Cesar Rojas was traveling at high speed in the northbound lanes when he crashed into another vehicle at the intersection. The impact caused the struck vehicle, driven by a 22-year-old woman, to overturn. Fortunately, she sustained only minor injuries. Two other vehicles involved in the crash suffered secondary damage, though no additional injuries were reported.
Following a preliminary investigation, officers determined that Rojas was impaired at the time of the crash. He was arrested and booked into Salt Lake County Jail on charges of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) and Negligently Operating a Vehicle Resulting in Injury.
Salt Lake City Police Chief Mike Brown condemned impaired driving, stating:
“Driving impaired is an inexcusable and reckless decision that puts our entire community in danger. The victims of these crashes can be left with life-altering injuries, emotional trauma, and, in the worst cases, the loss of life. I urge everyone to make responsible choices by planning ahead, using a designated driver, or calling for a ride. There is just never an excuse for putting lives at risk.”
How to Stay Safe and Prevent DUI-Related Accidents
- Never Drive Under the Influence – Alcohol and drugs impair judgment, coordination, and reaction time. If you plan to drink, use a designated driver, rideshare service, or public transportation.
- Watch for Signs of Impaired Drivers – Be alert for vehicles swerving, speeding, or making erratic lane changes. If you suspect a driver is impaired, keep your distance and report them to law enforcement.
- Always Wear a Seatbelt and Drive Defensively – Wearing a seatbelt significantly reduces the risk of serious injury in a crash. Stay focused on the road, anticipate other drivers’ actions, and be prepared to react to unexpected situations.
Injured in a DUI-Related Accident? Parker & McConkie Can Help.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a DUI-related accident, you deserve justice. At Parker & McConkie, our experienced personal injury attorneys will fight for your rights and seek the compensation you need for medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional suffering.
Contact the Utah Car Accident Lawyers at Parker & McConkie Today
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Let us help you navigate your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.
For more information, please contact an experienced car accident lawyer at Parker & McConkie Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free initial consultation today. We have 5 convenient locations in Utah, including Midvale, Salt Lake City, Ogden & Provo, UT. Clients can also visit our offices in Idaho Falls, ID & Rock Springs, WY.
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