A tragic New Year’s Day accident claimed the life of a 65-year-old Concord woman on Interstate 280 in Daly City, according to the California Highway Patrol. The single-vehicle crash, which occurred on the morning of January 1, 2025, resulted in DUI charges against the driver and highlights the devastating consequences of impaired driving during holiday celebrations.
The fatal DUI crash serves as a heartbreaking reminder that drunk driving remains one of the most preventable causes of death on California roadways, particularly during holiday periods when impaired driving incidents surge dramatically.
This tragedy underscores the critical importance of making responsible choices about alcohol consumption and transportation, as one person’s decision to drive under the influence can shatter multiple families and communities in an instant. The loss of life in this preventable crash is especially poignant given that it occurred at the start of a new year—a time typically associated with hope, new beginnings, and celebration rather than grief and devastation.
Details of the Fatal DUI Crash
The California Highway Patrol responded to the collision at approximately 11:13 a.m. on northbound Interstate 280, just north of Hickey Boulevard in Daly City. According to CHP’s preliminary investigation, a Honda CR-V was traveling in the far left lane when the driver suddenly lost control of the vehicle.
The CR-V veered off the roadway and crashed into an embankment on the shoulder before coming to rest on its wheels in the left lane. The violent impact proved fatal for the 65-year-old Concord woman, who was seated in a rear passenger seat at the time of the crash. Tragically, she was not wearing a seatbelt, according to authorities.
Emergency responders arrived quickly at the scene, but the victim was pronounced deceased at 11:26 a.m., just 13 minutes after the initial emergency call. A young woman who was seated in the front passenger seat also suffered injuries in the crash, though authorities have not disclosed her current condition.
The timing of the crash—occurring late in the morning on New Year’s Day—suggests the driver may have been impaired from celebrations that extended through the previous night and into the early hours of January 1st. The loss of control while traveling in the fast lane indicates the driver was likely traveling at freeway speeds when the crash occurred, which would have significantly increased the force of impact when the vehicle struck the embankment.
CHP investigators will conduct a thorough examination of the crash scene, including analysis of skid marks, vehicle damage patterns, and the point of impact to reconstruct the exact sequence of events. Toxicology testing will determine the driver’s blood alcohol content at the time of the collision, which will be crucial evidence in both the criminal prosecution and any civil litigation that follows.
The crash caused significant traffic disruptions on the northbound I-280 as CHP officers closed lanes to conduct their investigation and clear the wreckage. Delays extended for several hours as commuters attempted to travel through the area. Witness statements from other motorists who may have observed the Honda CR-V’s erratic driving behavior before the crash will also be gathered as part of the ongoing investigation into this tragic incident.
Driver Arrested for DUI at Crash Scene
The male driver of the Honda CR-V was arrested at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence, CHP confirmed to KRON4 News. The arrest underscores the serious criminal consequences that follow when impaired driving results in injury or death.
DUI crashes during holiday periods continue to be a persistent public safety concern in California. New Year’s Day is historically one of the deadliest days on California roadways due to increased alcohol consumption and impaired driving from holiday celebrations that extend into the early morning hours.
When a DUI driver causes a fatal accident, they may face multiple criminal charges, including:
- Vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated (California Penal Code Section 191.5)
- Gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated if driving with gross negligence
- DUI causing injury (California Vehicle Code Section 23153)
- Murder charges in cases involving prior DUI convictions (Watson murder)
These charges carry severe penalties, including substantial prison time, hefty fines, license revocation, and a permanent criminal record.
The Critical Importance of Seatbelt Use
A particularly heartbreaking aspect of this crash is that the 65-year-old victim was unbuckled at the time of the collision. California law requires all vehicle occupants to wear seatbelts, regardless of their seating position in the vehicle (California Vehicle Code Section 27315).
Seatbelts are the single most effective safety device for preventing death and serious injury in traffic crashes. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), seatbelts reduce the risk of death for front-seat passengers by 45% and the risk of serious injury by 50%. For rear-seat passengers, seatbelts reduce the risk of fatal injury by 25%.
In single-vehicle crashes like this one, where the vehicle strikes a fixed object, such as an embankment, the forces involved can be tremendous. Unrestrained passengers are at extreme risk of being ejected from the car or suffering catastrophic injuries from impact with the vehicle’s interior.
While the victim’s lack of a seatbelt did not cause this crash, it likely contributed to the fatal outcome. This tragic detail serves as a stark reminder that every passenger should buckle up on every trip, regardless of the distance or their seat location in the vehicle.
Understanding California DUI Laws and Liability
California has some of the strictest DUI laws in the nation, with enhanced penalties for crashes that result in injury or death. Under California Vehicle Code Section 23152, it is unlawful to operate a vehicle while:
- Having a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher
- Under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both, to the degree that driving ability is impaired
When a DUI driver causes a crash that results in death, surviving family members may pursue both criminal justice through the legal system and financial compensation through a wrongful death lawsuit.
A wrongful death claim can provide compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical costs incurred before death
- Loss of the victim’s future financial support
- Loss of companionship, love, and guidance
- Pain and suffering endured by surviving family members
California operates under a “dram shop” law as well, which, in limited circumstances, may hold establishments liable if they served alcohol to a visibly intoxicated person who subsequently caused a fatal crash. However, these cases are complex and require thorough investigation and expert legal representation.
Interstate 280 Safety Concerns in Daly City
Interstate 280 through Daly City is a vital transportation corridor connecting San Francisco with the Peninsula and South Bay. The stretch of highway near Hickey Boulevard where this crash occurred experiences heavy traffic volumes, particularly during holiday periods when travel increases.
While I-280 is generally considered safer than its parallel route, Highway 101, crashes still occur with concerning frequency. Common contributing factors to accidents on this section of I-280 include:
- Speeding and aggressive driving on the multi-lane freeway
- Distracted driving from mobile devices and in-vehicle technology
- Impaired driving, particularly during late-night and early morning hours
- Weather conditions, including fog, which is common in the Daly City area
- Driver fatigue during long-distance travel
The embankment that the Honda CR-V struck in this crash is part of the roadway’s shoulder design. While embankments and guardrails are intended to prevent vehicles from leaving the roadway entirely, they can cause significant damage during high-speed impacts, particularly when a driver has lost control of their car.
The Devastating Impact of Holiday DUI Crashes
New Year’s Day consistently ranks among the deadliest days on American roadways. According to data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, alcohol-impaired driving crashes are significantly overrepresented during major holidays, including New Year’s Day, Fourth of July, and Thanksgiving.
In California, law enforcement agencies typically increase DUI patrols and sobriety checkpoints during holiday periods in an effort to deter impaired driving. Despite these enhanced enforcement efforts, tragedies like this Daly City crash continue to occur.
The emotional toll of losing a loved one to a preventable DUI crash is immeasurable. Beyond the immediate grief and shock, families must navigate complex legal and financial challenges while coping with their loss. Many families find that pursuing legal action against the responsible party provides not only financial support during a difficult time but also a sense of justice and accountability.
Legal Rights of Victims and Families After DUI Crashes
When a DUI driver causes a fatal crash, California law provides several avenues for justice and compensation. The criminal case against the driver proceeds separately from any civil claims that surviving family members may file.
Criminal Case: The district attorney will prosecute the driver on criminal charges. While this process seeks to punish the wrongdoer and protect public safety, it does not provide direct financial compensation to the victim’s family.
Civil Wrongful Death Lawsuit: Surviving family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit to seek compensation for their losses. This civil action is separate from the criminal case and uses a different standard of proof. In California, wrongful death claims may be filed by:
- The deceased person’s surviving spouse or domestic partner
- The deceased person’s children
- If there is no surviving spouse or children, other eligible heirs as determined by California intestate succession laws
Insurance Claims: The driver’s auto insurance policy may provide coverage for damages resulting from the crash. However, if the driver was operating the vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the insurance company may attempt to deny or limit coverage. An experienced attorney can navigate these complex insurance issues to ensure families receive the compensation they deserve.
Time limits apply to wrongful death claims in California. Generally, families have two years from the date of death to file a lawsuit. However, given the complexities involved in DUI fatality cases and the time needed to gather evidence, families should consult with an attorney as soon as possible after the crash.
How GJEL Accident Attorneys Can Help Your Family
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we understand that no amount of money can bring back a loved one lost to a preventable DUI crash. However, we also know that families face significant financial burdens following a tragic loss, and holding the responsible party accountable can provide a measure of justice during an impossibly difficult time.
Our experienced wrongful death attorneys have successfully represented families throughout the Bay Area in cases involving DUI crashes, securing substantial compensation to help them move forward. We handle every aspect of the legal process, including:
- Conducting thorough investigations to establish liability and document damages
- Working with accident reconstruction experts to analyze the crash
- Obtaining police reports, toxicology results, and other critical evidence
- Negotiating with insurance companies to secure fair compensation
- Taking cases to trial when necessary to achieve justice for our clients
Losing a family member to a drunk driver is a devastating experience that no one should have to endure. These crashes are entirely preventable, and the families left behind deserve both accountability and compensation. We’re committed to fighting for justice on behalf of those who have lost loved ones to impaired drivers. We work on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing unless we win your case. There are no upfront costs, no hourly fees, and no financial risk to your family. This “no win, no fee” arrangement ensures that everyone has access to quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation.
Preventing Future DUI Tragedies
While this article focuses on the legal rights of crash victims and their families, preventing DUI crashes in the first place is the most important goal. Every driver can take steps to reduce the risk of impaired driving:
- Plan: Designate a sober driver before attending events where alcohol will be consumed
- Use rideshare services: Apps like Uber and Lyft make it easy and affordable to get home safely
- Take public transportation: BART, Caltrain, and local bus services provide alternatives to driving
- Stay overnight: When attending parties, consider arrangements to stay at the host’s location
- Speak up: If you see someone about to drive impaired, intervene and help them find a safe alternative
For hosts of holiday parties and gatherings, consider these safety measures:
- Offer non-alcoholic beverage options
- Stop serving alcohol well before the party ends
- Arrange transportation options for guests
- Never let an impaired guest leave your event behind the wheel
Community education and awareness campaigns play a vital role in reducing DUI incidents throughout California. Organizations like Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) work tirelessly to educate the public about the devastating consequences of impaired driving and advocate for more vigorous enforcement of DUI laws. Schools, workplaces, and community organizations can partner with law enforcement to host awareness events, particularly around major holidays when DUI crashes tend to spike dramatically.
Technology also offers promising solutions to the drunk driving epidemic—ignition interlock devices, which prevent a vehicle from starting if the driver’s blood alcohol content exceeds a preset limit, have proven effective in reducing repeat offenses among convicted DUI drivers. Some newer vehicles even come equipped with driver monitoring systems that can detect signs of impairment and alert the driver or even prevent the car from operating unsafely.
Additionally, friends and family members must be willing to have difficult conversations with loved ones who have patterns of risky drinking and driving behavior—early intervention can save lives before a tragedy occurs. Bar and restaurant staff also have a responsibility to monitor patrons’ alcohol consumption, refuse service to visibly intoxicated individuals, and assist in arranging safe transportation when needed.
Understanding Wrongful Death Settlement Values
Determining the appropriate compensation in a wrongful death case involving a DUI crash requires careful analysis of numerous factors that affect the value of your claim. Wrongful death settlement calculators can serve as helpful starting points for families trying to understand the potential value of their case; however, it’s essential to recognize that every case is unique and requires an individualized assessment by an experienced attorney.
These calculators typically consider several key components of damages, including economic losses such as the victim’s lost future earnings, benefits, and financial support they would have provided to their family over their expected lifetime. The 65-year-old victim in this Daly City crash, for example, may have been providing financial support, childcare assistance, or other valuable contributions to her family that can be quantified and included in a claim.
Non-economic damages—which are often the most substantial component of wrongful death settlements—account for the immeasurable loss of companionship, love, guidance, and emotional support that surviving family members will endure for the rest of their lives. Additional factors that settlement calculators help evaluate include funeral and burial expenses, medical costs incurred before death, the pain and suffering the victim experienced before passing, and, in DUI cases, the potential for punitive damages designed to punish the drunk driver’s reckless conduct.
California law does not cap wrongful death damages in cases involving impaired driving, which means settlements and verdicts can be substantial, particularly when the defendant’s conduct was egregious. Settlement calculators also factor in the strength of liability evidence—in DUI crashes where the driver was arrested, and criminal charges were filed, liability is typically clear, which can significantly increase settlement values as insurance companies recognize their limited defense options.
The age, health, and earning capacity of the victim, the number of dependents left behind, the degree of the victim’s relationship with surviving family members, and the jurisdiction where the case is filed all influence potential compensation amounts. While online settlement calculators can provide general ranges based on these factors, they cannot account for the nuanced details of your specific situation, the skill of your legal representation, or the willingness to take a case to trial if necessary to achieve complete justice.
At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we offer personalized case evaluations that go far beyond generic calculators, drawing on our decades of experience and track record of securing maximum compensation for families who have lost loved ones to drunk drivers throughout California. Call us now at +1-866-218-3776 to speak with our experts.
Getting the Legal Help You Deserve
“The loss of life in this New Year’s Day crash is absolutely heartbreaking, and my deepest sympathies go out to the victim’s family and loved ones during this unimaginably difficult time. When someone makes the reckless decision to drive under the influence and takes an innocent life, the surviving family members deserve both justice and compensation for their loss. DUI crashes are entirely preventable tragedies, and holding impaired drivers accountable through the legal system is crucial—not just for the families seeking closure, but to send a clear message that these devastating choices have serious consequences. If you’ve lost a loved one to a drunk driver, please know that you don’t have to navigate this painful journey alone. Our team is here to fight for your family’s rights, handle the complex legal process, and help secure the financial support you need during this challenging time. Remember, there’s no cost to speak with us, and we only get paid if we win your case—so please reach out for a free consultation to discuss your options.”- Andy Gillin, GJEL Accident Attorneys
If you’ve lost a loved one in a DUI crash in Daly City, San Mateo County, or anywhere in the Bay Area, you don’t have to face this difficult time alone. The wrongful death attorneys at GJEL Accident Attorneys have decades of experience helping families seek justice and compensation after preventable tragedies. We offer free, confidential consultations to discuss your case and explain your legal options. There’s no obligation, and you’ll speak directly with an experienced attorney who can answer your questions and provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.
Our track record speaks for itself—we’ve recovered over $1 billion for our clients over our 50-plus years in practice. We’re proud to have achieved some of the highest settlements and verdicts in California for wrongful death cases involving impaired drivers. Don’t wait to protect your family’s rights. Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys today for a free consultation. Remember, we work on a contingency fee basis—no win, no fee—so there’s no financial risk in calling us. Talk to an experienced GJEL accident attorney for a free legal consultation. Contact us at +1-866-218-3776 or visit our Sacramento office to secure your future and compensation.
Local Resources for Daly City Residents
If you or someone you know has been affected by this crash or another traffic collision in the Daly City area, the following local resources may be helpful:
Daly City Police Department
333 90th Street
Daly City, CA 94015
Non-Emergency: (650) 991-8119
Emergency: 911
Website: www.dalycity.org/police
The Daly City Police Department collaborates with the CHP on major traffic incidents and can provide accident reports, victim assistance information, and community safety resources.
California Highway Patrol – Redwood City Area Office
829 Marshall Street
Redwood City, CA 94063
Phone: (650) 369-6261
Website: www.chp.ca.gov/find-an-office/redwood-city
The CHP Redwood City office has jurisdiction over Interstate 280 in Daly City and handles traffic collision investigations, accident reports, and provides information about ongoing cases.
California Highway Patrol – Online Traffic Collision Report
Website: www.chp.ca.gov/notify-chp/chp-traffic-collision-reports
Online system for requesting copies of CHP traffic collision reports, which are essential documents for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
San Mateo County Coroner’s Office
1720 South Delaware Street
San Mateo, CA 94402
Phone: (650) 312-5550
Website: www.smcgov.org/coroner
The Coroner’s Office investigates sudden, unexpected deaths and can provide death certificates and autopsy information to authorized family members.
San Mateo County District Attorney’s Office – Victim Services
400 County Center, 3rd Floor
Redwood City, CA 94063
Phone: (650) 363-4059
Victim/Witness Assistance: (650) 363-4066
Website: www.smcgov.org/da/victim-services
Provides support services for crime victims, including assistance navigating the criminal justice system, court accompaniment, crisis intervention, and help applying for victim compensation.
Seton Medical Center (Nearest Trauma Center)
1900 Sullivan Avenue
Daly City, CA 94015
Emergency: (650) 992-4000
Main Line: (650) 992-4000
Website: www.setonmedicalcenter.org
Full-service hospital with 24-hour emergency department serving Daly City and surrounding communities.
California Victim Compensation Board
P.O. Box 350
Sacramento, CA 95812-0350
Toll-Free: 1-800-777-9229
Website: www.victims.ca.gov
Provides financial assistance to victims of violent crime, including vehicular manslaughter and DUI crashes, for expenses such as medical bills, funeral costs, lost wages, and mental health counseling.
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) – California Office
Toll-Free Helpline: 1-877-MADD-HELP (1-877-623-3435)
National 24-Hour Victim Helpline: 1-877-MADD-HELP
Website: www.madd.org/california
Email: victims@madd.org
MADD provides emotional support, victim advocacy, court accompaniment, and guidance through the criminal justice system for families impacted by drunk driving crashes.
California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) – Driver Safety Office
Website: www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/driver-education-and-safety
Phone: 1-800-777-0133
The DMV handles administrative license suspensions for DUI arrests and maintains records of driver violations and crashes.
San Mateo County Office of Emergency Services
400 Harbor Boulevard, Building C
Belmont, CA 94002
Phone: (650) 363-4790
Website: www.smcgov.org/smcoes
Coordinates emergency response and disaster preparedness efforts throughout San Mateo County.
211 Bay Area – Community Resource Hotline
Dial: 211 (or 1-800-273-6222)
Website: www.211bayarea.org
Free, confidential phone service connecting residents with essential community services, including counseling, legal aid, victim services, and emergency assistance.
Bay Area Legal Aid
1735 Telegraph Avenue
Oakland, CA 94612
Phone: (800) 551-5554
Website: www.baylegal.org
Provides free civil legal services to low-income residents, including assistance with victim compensation claims and related legal matters.
Safe Transportation for Every Pedestrian (STEP)
Website: www.ots.ca.gov/grants/step
California Office of Traffic Safety program focused on pedestrian and bicycle safety through education and enforcement.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
Website: www.nhtsa.gov
Impaired Driving Resources: www.nhtsa.gov/risky-driving/drunk-driving
Federal agency providing crash statistics, safety information, and impaired driving prevention resources.
Peninsula Conflict Resolution Center
1660 South Amphlett Boulevard, Suite 219
San Mateo, CA 94402
Phone: (650) 513-0330
Website: www.pcrcweb.org
Offers mediation and conflict resolution services that can be helpful in certain civil aspects of accident cases.
Center for Independence of Individuals with Disabilities (CID)
2001 Winward Way, Suite 103
San Mateo, CA 94404
Phone: (650) 645-1780
Website: www.cidsanmateo.org
Provides resources and advocacy for individuals who have sustained disabling injuries in accidents.
The Grief Recovery Institute
Website: www.griefrecoverymethod.com
Phone: (818) 907-9600
Offers support programs and resources for individuals coping with loss, including loss from sudden traumatic events.
California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS)
2208 Kausen Drive, Suite 300
Elk Grove, CA 95758
Phone: (916) 509-3030
Website: www.ots.ca.gov
State agency dedicated to improving traffic safety through grants, education, and enforcement programs, including DUI prevention initiatives.
These resources provide critical support for accident victims and their families during one of the most difficult times imaginable. Whether you need immediate crisis intervention, help navigating the criminal justice system, assistance with funeral expenses, or long-term emotional support, these organizations stand ready to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out—these services exist specifically to support people affected by traffic tragedies like this New Year’s Day crash on I-280.
