Does Fatal Motorcycle Crash Suspect Deserve Murder Charge?

Sep 30,2016

A man was arrested last week for driving under the influence and causing a fatal motorcycle crash in Perris in April. The 19-year-old suspect, Ramiro Alvarado, has been charged with second-degree murder for the crash that took the life of 52-year-old motorcyclist Wesley Erickson.

Authorities say Alvarado was driving north on Navajo Road on April 10 when he drifted across the center meridian and struck the motorcycle head-on. Ericsson was thrown from the motorcycle and died at the scene.

Alvarado, who has a prior DUI conviction, was found to be under the influence of drugs when the fatal motorcycle crash occurred. Alvarado’s case is a reminder that repeat DUI offenders can face serious charges if they cause another accident while under the influence. California law allows a repeat DUI offender to receive a murder charge if they cause a crash that ends in a fatality.

“Repeat offenders account for one-third of drivers arrested for DUI. We need harsher consequences for first offenses to put a stop to this trend,” said Attorney Walter Clark, founder of Walter Clark Legal Group.

Our firm has been handling personal injury cases throughout the California Low Desert and High Desert communities for over 30 years. With a 95% success rate, the California personal injury attorneys at Walter Clark Legal Group will fight to hold those responsible for your loss accountable and win compensation to cover medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been injured in an auto accident and want to discuss your legal options, contact us today for a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We have offices in Indio, Rancho Mirage, Victorville, and Yucca Valley and represent clients through the entire California Low Desert and High Desert communities.

DISCLAIMER: The Walter Clark Legal Group blog is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended as legal or medical advice. References to laws are based on general legal practices and vary by location. Information reported comes from secondary news sources. We do handle these types of cases, but whether or not the individuals and/or loved ones involved in these accidents choose to be represented by a law firm is a personal choice we respect. Should you find any of the information incorrect, we welcome you to contact us with corrections.