[01-04-2026] Santa Barbara County, CA – Santa Maria Man Arrested for Felony DUI After Rear-End Collision at Broadway and Cook Street

A 57-year-old man was arrested for felony DUI after rear-ending another vehicle at a stoplight at Broadway and Cook Street in Santa Maria on Sunday evening, January 4, 2026.

According to the Santa Maria Police Department, officers responded to the collision at around 8:28 p.m. and determined that the man was at fault for failing to stop at a red light and rear-ending the vehicle in front of him. 

Further investigation revealed that the man, a Santa Maria resident, was driving under the influence of alcohol. Police noted that the man had four prior DUI arrests, which led to the felony DUI charge.

The man was booked into the Santa Barbara County Jail on felony DUI charges.

The investigation is ongoing.

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.