An elderly man was killed in a San Diego car accident after he was struck by an out-of-control vehicle while getting into his parked pickup truck. According to a news report in the San Diego Union-Tribune, the man had just left his Escondido home on Begonia Street near East Mission Avenue, the afternoon of December 23, 2009, and was getting into his truck, which was parked at the curb. That was when, Escondido police say, a Honda Accord drifted across the road and struck him. After striking the man, the Honda continued down the road and struck another parked vehicle before coming to a stop. The critically injured victim was taken to an area hospital where he later died of major blunt force trauma. Police say alcohol does not seem to be a factor in this fatal accident. No arrests have been made pending a police investigation.
I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of this elderly victim for their tragic loss. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved this man. Please keep them in your prayers.
Pedestrian Accidents
There were nine fatalities and 63 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in Escondido, according to California Highway Patrol's 2007 traffic accident statistics. In San Diego County as a whole, 51 fatalities and 1,068 injuries were reported as a result of pedestrian accidents. Countywide, car accidents claimed 268 lives and injured 14,641 people during the same year.
What Caused this Fatal Accident?
Based on this news report, it seems to me that the driver of the Honda Accord lost control of the vehicle. The question is what caused the driver to lose control of the Honda. Officials have said the driver was not impaired. Was the driver distracted? Was there a mechanical malfunction in the Honda? Did the driver suffer a medical condition? Did he or she fall asleep at the wheel? Did the driver lose control because he or she was speeding or driving recklessly? If this accident was caused as a result of the driver's negligence, he or she could be held liable for the injuries caused.
Wrongful Death Claims
The victim's family would be well-advised to contact an experienced San Diego personal injury lawyer, who will stay abreast of the official investigation and help determine whether any negligence or wrongdoing was involved here. If that was the case, the victim's family will be able to file a wrongful death claim seeking damages. If the negligent driver was on-the-job at the time of the accident, his or her employer could also be held responsible. The best personal injury law firms will always provide a free and comprehensive consultation to injured victims and their families.
The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.
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