Driver Suspected of DUI in Fatal East County Car Accident That Killed Beloved Grandmother Identified as Josefina Sanchez
EAST COUNTY, SAN DIEGO (February 22, 2026) – A 72-year-old grandmother identified as Josefina Sanchez has tragically died in a San Diego County car accident on La Cresta Road near Coyote Ridge.
San Diego County officials are saying that the accident took place around 2:30 PM on Wednesday. A truck driver suspected of operating under the influence crossed into opposing lanes of traffic before colliding with a Volkswagen Jetta driven by Josefina Sanchez.
Paramedics were reported to the scene of the accident to help the victim. Sadly, Josefina Sanchez died due to the severity of her injuries.
This tragedy comes shortly after the victim’s family lost their grandfather on January 30. You can help support the victim through GoFundMe.
Liability for San Diego County Truck Accidents
Every driver in California must operate their vehicle with the care necessary to avoid collisions. According to California Vehicle Code 22107, “No person shall turn a vehicle from a direct course or move right or left upon a roadway until such movement can be made with reasonable safety and then only after the giving of an appropriate signal in the manner provided in this chapter in the event any other vehicle may be affected by the movement.” Many different factors could contribute to an East County car accident.
- Driver Distraction: Car accidents routinely involve drivers that are distracted by their phones.
- Intoxication: A large portion of fatal collisions involve drivers that were intoxicated by drugs or alcohol.
- Speed: Drivers are substantially more likely to lose control of their vehicle while they are speeding.
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Drivers that cause accidents while intoxicated may face criminal and civil liability for their actions. Depending on the specific facts of any case, liability for a head-on collision could extend beyond any individual driver deemed to be at fault. If a vehicle was being used for a commercial purpose at the time of the collision, the employer that owned that vehicle could be responsible.
Steps to Take After San Diego County Truck Accidents
Car accidents remain a leading cause of preventable injury and death across San Diego and the United States. According to Live Well San Diego, “There were close to 41,000 deaths from vehicle collisions in 2020, which amounted to $430 billion from medical cost and cost estimates for lives lost.” It is important that certain actions are taken after any fatal car accident.
- Police Investigation: The police should be called so that they can begin investigating.
- Photos: Many photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Witnesses: Any person who may have witnessed the collision should be interviewed while their memories are still fresh.
- Investigation: The family of any person who died in a truck accident should seek an independent review of the collision by a team experienced in accident reconstruction and negligence claims.
Car accidents are often very preventable. This is particularly true when drivers cross into opposing lanes of traffic. Unfortunately, drivers and their insurance providers will almost never accept responsibility when they are involved in a collision. The family of any person who died due to the negligent actions of another driver is protected by a number of laws. They are able to seek some measure of accountability through a wrongful death claim.
Investigating San Diego County Truck Accidents
We at Carrazco Law extend our deepest condolences to the family of Josefina Sanchez. Any person who may have more information about what happened should reach out to the California Highway Patrol. This was a preventable tragedy that should have never taken place. There needs to be accountability for the sake of the victim’s family.
Do you need more information about a San Diego County truck accident? Our team of accident investigators is here for you. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any particular accident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (800) 541-3244.
