📍 San Diego County, California — A shocking event for the motorcycling community: a Tesla strikes a motorcyclist on I-805, causing his death and fleeing the scene.
According to the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, 22-year-old Ulysses Jiminez faces charges of murder, six counts of assault with a deadly weapon, and one count of hit-and-run causing death or serious injury. Jiminez pleaded not guilty during a hearing at the Chula Vista Superior Court.
The events occurred on June 30, when Jiminez, driving his Tesla Model Y at high speed in the I-805 HOV lane, allegedly rear-ended a BMW motorcycle ridden by 53-year-old Jorge Uribe, who died at the scene. After the collision, the Tesla also struck a van carrying six passengers, all of whom were injured.
The Tesla driver fled on foot but was recorded on video by other drivers and arrested shortly after by the CHP.
Legal Consequences in Cases Like This
In California, intentionally hitting a motorcyclist and causing death constitutes homicide under California Penal Code Section 187 (PC § 187), punishable by life in prison if convicted.
Other applicable charges include:
- Assault with a deadly weapon (PC § 245(a)(1)), for using a vehicle as a weapon to assault others.
- Hit-and-run causing death or serious injury (VC § 20001(b)(2)) is a felony punishable by state prison and severe fines.
What Are the Rights of Victims and Their Families?
At Motorcyclist Attorney, we know no compensation can replace a loved one or heal the suffering caused by a violent accident. However, California law gives victims and families a legal path to seek justice and financial relief during difficult times. These laws are meant to protect your well-being and ensure those responsible face the consequences of their actions.
Wrongful Death Claim:
Immediate family members — such as spouses, children, parents, or dependents — have the right to file a wrongful death claim for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, companionship, and other damages arising from the loss.
Personal Injury Claim:
Survivors of the accident may file for physical damages, medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses caused by violent or negligent acts through a personal injury claim.
Civil and Criminal Liability:
You have the right to demand justice, regardless of your immigration status. California law protects everyone, and at Motorcyclist Attorney, we fight to ensure that no victim or family fears exercising their rights.
In Memory of Jorge Uribe and Support of Our Biker Community
We stand in solidarity with Jorge Uribe’s family and California’s motorcycling community. Every life lost on the road is a preventable tragedy. We will continue working for safer roads and unwavering justice.
At Motorcyclist Attorney, we offer free, 100% confidential legal consultations for accident victims, their families, and the biker community. No matter your case’s severity or immigration status, we are here to listen, support, and fight for your rights.
Call us now and get a free consultation.
