A high-speed crash caused by an impaired driver on Sunday afternoon left multiple vehicles damaged after the driver blew through a red light and struck a Chevrolet SUV before crashing into a wall in north Rapid City, according to police.
Police responded around 2:40 p.m. at the intersection of Haines Avenue and Anamosa Street after reports of a serious collision involving a silver Mazda that had crashed into a retaining wall and damaged other vehicles along the way.
Witnesses told police that the Mazda ran a red light at high speed and struck a Chevrolet SUV before leaving the roadway. Officers later determined that the driver was intoxicated and too impaired to operate a vehicle safely.
According to Rapid City Police, 27-year-old Veronica Perez of Rapid City was arrested on suspicion of DUI, reckless driving, leaving the scene of an accident, and additional offenses related to the crash. She was booked into the Pennington County Jail as police continued their investigation.
Although this particular crash did not report injuries to other motorists, the property damage and potential danger illustrate how impaired drivers put everyone on the road at risk. Drunk driving collisions can cause serious injuries, emotional trauma, and long-term financial burdens for victims and their families.
Victims of drunk driving crashes — whether they suffer physical injuries, vehicle damage, or emotional trauma — may have multiple legal rights. In addition to any criminal charges the driver faces, civil claims such as personal injury or property damage lawsuits can seek compensation for:
Medical bills and treatment
Lost wages due to injury
Pain and suffering
Diminished quality of life
Vehicle repair or replacement costs
Understanding and asserting these rights can be complicated, especially while recovering from an unexpected collision.
When someone is harmed by another person’s negligence or illegal conduct — such as drunk driving — having an experienced legal advocate can be crucial. A qualified crime victim attorney can help victims and families understand their legal options, navigate insurance claims, and pursue full compensation for their losses.
Haggard Crime Victim Attorney, a division of The Haggard Law Firm, is dedicated to supporting individuals affected by violent or negligent acts, including DUI crashes that result in injury or significant property damage. Their team works to ensure that victims’ rights are protected and that legal options are fully explored.
If you or a loved one has been hurt or suffered losses due to someone else’s impaired driving, you do not have to navigate the aftermath alone. Legal guidance and support are available to help you pursue justice and recovery.
Source:
https://www.kotatv.com/2026/01/13/drunk-driver-causes-multiple-car-damage-north-rapid-city-sunday/
