David Vogel, 40, a maintenance worker for the city of Gilroy, was killed in a car accident as he was performing some routine work on a city street. According to news report in the Hollister Free Lance, the fatal accident occurred the morning of March 14, 2011 on Farrell Avenue. Officials say Vogel was hit by a van. He was pronounced dead at the scene. Officials are still investigating the cause and circumstances of this fatal vehicle versus pedestrian accident.
I offer my deepest condolences to the family members, friends and co-workers of David Vogel for their heartbreaking loss. Vogel has been described in news reports as a devoted friend, jokester and a great father. What a tragic loss for everyone who knew and loved this man! Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), one person died and eight were injured in pedestrian accidents in Gilroy. In Santa Clara County as a whole, 22 deaths and 466 injuries involving pedestrian accidents were reported during the same year.
What Caused This Tragic Accident?
I trust investigators are looking for answers to a number of questions in this case. How did the pedestrian accident occur? Where was Vogel standing or walking at the time? Was the van driver at fault? According to neighbors' comments in the article, speeding vehicles are fairly common on that street. Was speed a factor in this fatal accident? Was the driver intoxicated, distracted or inattentive at the time? Was there a dangerous condition on the roadway which may have caused or contributed to this accident?
Fault and Liability
If it is determined that the driver was at fault, he or she could be held liable for Vogel's wrongful death. In cases where negligence or wrongdoing was involved, the family of a deceased car accident victim can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for medical and funeral expenses, lost future income, pension, benefits, loss of companionship, and other related damages. In this case, since the accident occurred when Vogel was on the job, his family members will also be entitled to receive workers compensation benefits from his employer.
Families of deceased car accident victims would be well-advised to retain the services of an experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer, who will stay abreast of the official investigation and make sure that all the negligent parties are held accountable. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.
SLS Consulting