Napa DUI Crash on Silverado Trail: What Victims and Families Should Know

A devastating crash on Silverado Trail in Napa County has left three women dead and multiple others injured on March 28, 2026, according to media outlets. Incidents like this raise serious questions about accountability, road safety, and what options exist for those affected.

If you’re reading this, you may be trying to understand how something like this happens and what comes next. Here’s what to know.

What Happened on Silverado Trail?

According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash began when a Mitsubishi driver allegedly sideswiped an oncoming BMW SUV. After losing control, the driver crossed into the opposite lane and caused a head-on collision with a Toyota Prius.

The result:

• 3 people killed

• 6 people injured
  

The driver has been arrested on suspicion of DUI and has a prior history of driving-related offenses.

On roads like Silverado Trail, a single loss of control can quickly lead to catastrophic consequences.

Who Were the Victims?

The victims have been identified as:

• Vivian Bertolino, 65

• Linda Wolters, 62

• Katrina Clarke, 65
  

Behind every case like this are families facing sudden and permanent loss.

Why Crashes Like This Happen

Silverado Trail is a two-lane undivided roadway, meaning there is no physical barrier separating opposing traffic.

When a driver:

• Loses control

• Is impaired

• Crosses the center line
  

There is nothing preventing a head-on collision.

These conditions significantly increase the risk of severe injury or death.

The Role of DUI in Serious Accidents

Driving under the influence remains one of the leading causes of serious crashes in California.

Impairment affects:

• Reaction time

• Judgment

• Lane control
  

In cases like this, impaired driving creates a high risk of losing control and crossing into oncoming traffic. Less than a month ago, there was another tragic fatal DUI accident in Santa Rosa. 

Legal Accountability: Who May Be Responsible?

In DUI-related crashes, liability often begins with the impaired driver—but it does not always end there.

Depending on the facts, responsible parties may include:

• The at-fault driver

• Other drivers in multi-vehicle collisions

• In limited cases, third parties
  

These cases often require a detailed investigation to determine how the crash occurred.

What Injured Victims Should Know

If you or someone you care about was injured, you may be dealing with:

• Medical treatment

• Lost income

• Ongoing uncertainty
  

Next steps matter. You should:

• Seek medical care

• Document everything

• Be cautious when speaking with insurance companies
  

Here is a step-by-step guide.

What Families Can Do After a Fatal Accident

Families may have the right to bring a wrongful death claim to recover:

• Funeral and burial expenses

• Loss of financial support

• Loss of companionship
  

While no legal action can undo the loss, it can provide financial support and accountability.

Why These Cases Matter

These cases are about more than compensation. They are about holding negligent drivers accountable and addressing preventable conduct on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens to a DUI driver after a fatal crash in California?

They may face both criminal charges and civil liability.

Can multiple parties be responsible in a multi-car accident?

Yes. Liability may be shared depending on how the crash occurred.

How long do I have to file a claim?

Generally, 2 years in California. If a government entity is involved, a claim must typically be filed within 6 months.

What if the driver has a prior record?

Prior conduct may be relevant, particularly in establishing patterns of behavior.

Should I speak with the insurance company?

Proceed carefully. Insurance companies often attempt to limit payouts.

This Napa crash highlights how quickly serious accidents can occur and the lasting impact they have on victims and families. Understanding your rights and options can be an important step in deciding what comes next.

After a crash like this, it’s common to feel overwhelmed or unsure of your rights. At Gomerman | Bourn & Associates, we represent individuals and families harmed by negligence, including DUI-related crashes. Our role is to help clients understand their legal options, navigate insurance issues, and pursue fair compensation. This is not something you have to handle alone.

If you’d like to speak with our team, you can contact us or call 415-545-8608 for a free, no-obligation consultation.