INJURED IN AN ACCIDENT?

[11-13-2025] Sonoma County, CA – Passenger Killed, Driver Arrested for DUI After SUV Hits Tree Near Cotati

A fatal crash claimed the life of a passenger and led to a DUI arrest near Cotati late Thursday night, November 13, 2025.

California Highway Patrol officers responded at 11:25 p.m. to a single-vehicle collision on Stony Point Road, south of West Sierra Avenue. Upon arrival, they found a Chevrolet Tahoe that had veered off the road and collided with a tree. The SUV was occupied by two individuals.

The passenger, identified only as a male by CHP, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver, a woman, sustained major but non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

Investigators determined that the driver was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. Authorities have not released her name. According to CHP, the driver was arrested at the hospital and will be booked into the Sonoma County Jail once medically cleared.

Anyone with information related to the collision is asked to contact the CHP Santa Rosa Area Office at 707-806-5600.

Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?

Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:

Check yourself for any injuries.
Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
Seek immediate medical attention.
Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.

What A Lawyer Can Do For You

Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.