A Novato woman faces felony DUI charges after barreling through a red light and causing a major injury crash, according to authorities. Susan Schuster, 49, ran the red at the intersection of Rowland and Redwood Boulevards on Monday evening, striking the vehicle of a 25-year-old Novato man proceeding through the intersection legally. The Novato Police Department issued a statement detailing the incident, noting that first responders arrived at the scene to administer aid to the injured man before he was whisked to hospital care. The victim is expected to recover.

Upon contact with Schuster, officers alledgedly detected signs that she was under the influence and had a Drug Recognition Expert assess her condition on-site. The results showed Schuster's Blood Alcohol Level was over the legal limit, leading to her arrest and booking into Marin County Jail, as stated in the police report. This accident underscores a troubling rise in DUI arrests and collisions in Novato.

In light of the recent increase in such incidents, the Novato Police Department shared crucial safety tips for drivers. Among their recommendations is the stern warning to never drive intoxicated, to ensure sober transportation from parties and the importance of wearing seatbelts as a defense against impaired drivers. The police also advocate for the use of sober ride programs and for community members to prevent potentially impaired individuals from driving. Witnessing impaired driving warrants a call to 9-1-1, and choosing not to ride with a driver suspected of impairment can save lives.

The police expressed gratitude to the Novato Fire Protection District for offering medical assistance during this incident. They are urging anyone with information about the collision to come forward by calling the Novato Police Department at 415-897-4361, referencing case #NP24-1122.