OCEANSIDE, CA — Three people were hospitalized after a collision between a car and a motorcycle early Saturday in North County, authorities said.
According to the Police Department, the suspected DUI crash in Oceanside occurred around 2:00 a.m. when a Volkswagen Beetle traveling northbound on Douglas Drive was struck on the driver’s side by a Harley‑Davidson motorcycle traveling eastbound on Mission Avenue.
Police said the 24‑year‑old motorcyclist and his 23‑year‑old female passenger were ejected. The rider was transported to a hospital with major injuries; the passenger sustained moderate injuries.
The 19‑year‑old driver of the Volkswagen, an Oceanside resident, suffered minor injuries and was also hospitalized. She was not suspected of impairment, according to department spokesperson Gina Avalos. While the investigation remains active, preliminary findings indicate alcohol consumption by the motorcycle rider may have been a factor, Avalos said.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Officer Kevin Lissner at 760‑435‑4651.
Legal context
- Driving under the influence is strictly prohibited under California Vehicle Code §23152, which makes it unlawful for any person to operate a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs. When a driver under the influence causes an accident that results in injury, the more serious charge of DUI causing injury may be brought under Vehicle Code §23153. This distinction reflects the legislature’s intent to treat impaired driving that leads to harm as a heightened offense, carrying both criminal consequences and civil liability.
- On the civil side, California applies the doctrine of pure comparative negligence under Civil Code §1714. This means that even if an injured party is partially at fault for an accident, they are not barred from recovery; their compensation may be reduced to their share of fault. For example, if a passenger or another driver is found 20% responsible for the incident, their recoverable damages would be reduced by that percentage.
- Injured passengers retain the right to pursue claims regardless of which driver is ultimately deemed at fault. Passengers are rarely considered responsible for the cause of the accident, and California law provides strong protections for them to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Who Can File a Claim?
After a DUI-related crash, several parties may have standing to bring a claim:
- Injured passengers – Passengers in the intoxicated driver’s vehicle, or another car, can file personal injury claims to recover damages.
- Other drivers – If struck by an impaired driver, they may pursue compensation for injuries, property damage, and other losses.
- Pedestrians or bicyclists – Vulnerable road users hit by a drunk driver have a clear right to bring a claim.
- Family members of victims – In tragic cases where the accident results in death, surviving spouses, children, or other dependents may file a wrongful death claim.
Motorcyclist Attorney — Support for Injured Riders and Passengers
If you or a loved one were involved in a motorcycle crash in North County, our team can help you understand your options.
- Free, confidential case review
- Coordination with medical providers for documentation of injuries
- Investigation and evidence preservation while the facts are still fresh
- No fees unless we win (contingency‑fee representation)
📞 Contact Motorcyclist Attorney 24/7 to speak with a motorcycle‑injury team that knows California roads—and your rights.
