Christopher Trachta, a truck driver for Caltrans, was arrested and charged with suspicion of drunk driving after an accident on Highway 78. As reported by San Diego 10 News, Trachta had been driving a CalTrans flatbed truck carrying a tractor when the tractor rolled off of the truck bed and smashed into a nearby apartment owned by a local family. The apartment building and its surrounding asphalt were seriously damaged as a result. Trachta continued to drive the truck onward where he struck another vehicle before coming to a stop a few feet west of the Winola Farms Marketplace. There were no reported injures from the incident. CalTrans stated that they have placed Trachta on administrative leave until the police investigation has been completed.
Under the California Vehicle Code 23152, it is illegal to drive a vehicle while under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or any combination thereof. It is also illegal under this section to drive a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of 0.08% or more. In most DUI cases, the judge and prosecuting attorney are much more likely to increase punishment when there is an accident involved. The punishment is also likely to be severe when there is significant damage done or when a work-related vehicle is involved.
If you or a loved one have been arrested for DUI, you should speak with a DUI lawyer as soon as possible. An experienced DUI San Diego defense lawyer can provide you with the best advice on how to proceed with your case and present the best defense. At Wallin & Klarich, we have represented people accused of DUI for over 30 years. Call us at 888-280-6839 or visit us at www.wklaw.com. We will be there when you call.
