Vivian Bertolino dies in multi-vehicle crash on Silverado Trail

DUI suspect crossed into oncoming traffic near Yountville, CHP says

March 28, 2026 | Napa, CA

A tragic multi-vehicle accident in Napa County claimed three lives on March 28, when a suspected impaired driver caused a head-on collision on Silverado Trail. 

Authorities arrested the 68-year-old Vallejo man on charges including vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated.

Vivian Bertolino, 65, died after a multi-vehicle crash involving a suspected DUI driver along Silverado Trail near Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars in Napa County.

What Happened in the Crash?

The incident unfolded near Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars, east of Yountville. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the driver of a southbound Mitsubishi sedan veered into oncoming traffic, striking a northbound BMW SUV before colliding head-on with a Toyota sedan.

• Date and Time: March 28, afternoon
• Location: Silverado Trail, Napa County, near Yountville
• Vehicles Involved: Mitsubishi sedan, southbound, BMW SUV, northbound, Toyota sedan, northbound
• Fatalities: Two passengers in the Mitsubishi, including 65-year-old Vivian Bertolino of American Canyon, and one passenger in the Toyota
• Injuries: Several individuals were hospitalized with unspecified injuries
• Driver Status: 68-year-old from Vallejo arrested for DUI and vehicular manslaughter

The crash highlights the dangers of impaired driving on winding roads popular for wine country tourism.

Why Do These Accidents Happen?

Impaired driving remains a leading cause of fatal crashes nationwide. Factors like alcohol or drugs can severely impair judgment, reaction time, and coordination, turning routine drives into deadly crashes.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), alcohol-impaired driving fatalities have persisted at high levels. Below is a summary of key statistics:

These figures underscore the urgent need for awareness and enforcement to prevent such tragedies.

Legal Insights

In cases such as this involving suspected impaired driving, legal professionals emphasize accountability and support for affected families.

“Drunken and drugged drivers face criminal charges after accidents that harm or kill others,” noted Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal. “Beyond criminal proceedings, victims' families may seek compensation via civil lawsuits against the at-fault party.”

Key takeaways from legal analysis:

• Independent investigations often reveal additional factors, such as blood-alcohol levels.
• Attorneys can advocate for families, safeguarding rights and pursuing justice against reckless drivers.
• Civil claims may cover medical costs, funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional distress.

“A wrongful death occurs when negligence or wrongdoing leads to a fatality,” explained Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal. “In vehicle crashes from DUI, speeding, or distraction, families typically have grounds for civil action against the responsible driver.”

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