Ayneisha Frazier Pleads Not Guilty to DUI Charges in Crash That Critically Injured Daughter

On May 7, 2024, Ayneisha Frazier, a 26-year-old mother with no driver's license, crashed into another car at the intersection of East Palomar Street and Brandywine Avenue in Chula Vista, California. Frazier, who was driving under the influence with a blood alcohol level of .23 and marijuana in her system, caused critical injuries to her 3-year-old daughter and injured three others.

Why this matters: This incident highlights the devastating consequences of driving under the influence, which claims thousands of lives and causes countless injuries every year. It also underscores the importance of holding irresponsible drivers accountable for their actions, particularly when they put the! lives of innocent people, including children, at risk.

The crash occurred just before midnight when Frazier disregarded a red light at the intersection. Authorities reported that Frazier's blood alcohol level was nearly three times the legal limit. Three people inside the other car were transported to the hospital with various injuries, while Frazier's daughter is receiving treatment at Rady Children's Hospital for a traumatic brain injury and is unable to breathe on her own.

Frazier pleaded not guilty to three felony charges with great bodily injury allegations attached to each one. Deputy District Attorney Mary Loeb described Frazier as "a danger to the public" and stated that she was combative at the scene, preventing police from administering a field sobriety test. The test was eventually conducted 90 minutes later, revealing her high blood alcohol level.

Superior Court Judge Garry Haehnle denied bail, stating, "I don't trust her. This woman who we've had hundreds of years of proof by now of the dangers of drinking and driving. If she wants to go out and drink and drive by herself, that's fine, but you don't put a child in that situation." If convicted on all charges, Frazier faces more than 13 years behind bars. A bail hearing is scheduled for May 14.

According to the National Safety Council, 4.5 million injuries occurred as a result of motor vehicle crashes in 2018. Candice Bond, an experienced accident attorney and Managing Partner of Bond Legal, emphasized the importance of having an independent investigation conducted by a seasoned attorney to determine the cause and liability of the crash. Pending the results of the investigation, the victims injured in the crash may have the right to pursue apersonal injury lawsuit.

The case of Ayneisha Frazier highlights the severe consequences of driving under the influence, especially when a child is involved. With Frazier's daughter in critical condition and facing a long road to recovery, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of responsible driving. As the legal proceedings unfold, the victims and their families await justice and the opportunity to hold Frazier accountable for her alleged actions on thatfateful night.