66-Year-Old Dan Francisco Man Injured in DUI Accident, Kathy Jean Barella Arrested
ROHNERT PARK, CA (April 19, 2018) – A man was seriously injured in a pedestrian accident along Highway 101 when a drunk driver backed out of a parking space in a Walmart parking lot, and struck him, early Thursday evening.
Emergency personnel were called to the scene along Highway 101 near the Graton Casino, just before 6:00 PM, to find the 66-year-old San Francisco man on the ground. Reportedly, the man was walking with his girlfriend and heading back to a parked vehicle when he was hit by the vehicle.
The victim sustained major injuries and was transported to the Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, where he underwent surgery on Thursday night.
Witnesses informed police that a 2005 Jeep Liberty backed into the man and possibly drove over him. The driver, 58-year-old Kathy Jean Barella, was booked into the Sonoma County Jail on suspicion of felony drunken driving causing injury. An initial test taken at the scene recorded a blood-alcohol level of 0.11 percent, which is way above the legal limit of 0.08 percent. At the scene, Barella also admitted to police that she had been drinking, and investigating officers found alcohol bottles in the vehicle.
Do not get behind the wheel of a vehicle if you find yourself drunk or buzzed. It is important to always abide by all driving laws, in order to ensure your safety and the safety of surrounding vehicles, motorists, and pedestrians. If under the influence of drugs or alcohol, do the right thing by requesting a ride service or calling a friend/ family member to pick you up.
If you or a loved one was injured due the negligent or irresponsible driving of an intoxicated driver, contact the personal injury lawyers at Sweet Law Group. We have over 40 years of experience in the field, and know what it takes to win your case and achieve the justice and compensation that you deserve. Call us at (800) 203-3061 for a free case evaluation by a legal professional in your area. You can also reach us by online chat, text message, and email.
