Visalia, CA – On the evening of Thursday, May 21, 2026, a suspected DUI collision left two children injured and led to the arrest of their mother, Margarita Rodriguez, according to KSEE/KGPE.
The Visalia Police Department reports that the accident took place around 6:30 PM near Ben Maddox Way and Walnut Avenue.
Authorities said Rodriguez was driving eastbound on Walnut Avenue with her three children, ages 8, 7, and 2, when she lost control, swerved off the roadway, and crashed into a tree.
The impact crushed the front of the car, deployed the airbag, and shattered the windshield. The 7-year-old was not injured, while the 2-year-old and 8-year-old required medical evaluation following the crash.
Officers determined Rodriguez was driving under the influence of a stimulant. She was arrested on suspicion of felony driving under the influence causing injury and child endangerment. The investigation remains ongoing.
California DUI Law
Section 23153(a) of the California Vehicle Code (CVC) states that it is illegal for any driver to “Operate a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs and, as a result, cause bodily injury to someone else.”
Passenger Liability
A driver’s liability coverage extends to those inside their vehicle as well as outside. In many cases, those passengers are someone who knows the driver personally. So, when a passenger is injured and their driver is found liable, they may feel reluctant to file a claim against the driver’s insurance.
In many cases, however, a personal injury claim may be required for an insurer to offer a fair settlement that covers the injured party’s medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages related to the accident. A personal injury attorney can facilitate this process and, as a neutral third party, help navigate any emotional complexities that may arise.
Visalia Personal Injury Lawyer
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, contact a Visalia personal injury lawyer for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
