A motorist was killed and three others were injured in a Los Angeles car accident involving several vehicles the morning of June 20, 2010. According to a CBS News report, the fatal car crash occurred on the southbound 710 Freeway in Vernon. California Highway Patrol officials say a man who was in one of the vehicles was pronounced dead at the scene after being ejected onto the southbound side of the freeway and run over by another vehicle. Three others were taken to a local hospital for treatment. Also, two people were arrested on suspicion of drunk driving. An investigation is ongoing.
I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of the deceased victim for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. They will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Car Accidents
There were two deaths and 102 injuries involving car accidents in Vernon, California, according to CHP's 2008 traffic accident statistics. In Los Angeles County as a whole, 667 fatalities and 52,229 injuries were reported as a result of car accidents during the same year.
Drunk Driving Laws
Driving under the influence is a serious crime under California law. According to California Vehicle Code Section 23152 (a): "It is unlawful for any person who is under the influence of any alcoholic beverage or drug, or under the combined influence of any alcoholic beverage and drug, to drive a vehicle." A driver whose act of driving under the influence results in the death of another will likely face vehicular manslaughter charges under California Penal Code section 191.5 (a).
Claim for Compensation
In this particular case, it is not clear how or why this accident occur. If drunk driving was involved, the individual or individuals who caused the accident can not only face criminal charges, but also be held civilly liable for their negligence.
Injured victims or families of deceased victims in such cases would be well-advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, who will stay abreast of the official investigation and make sure that the negligent parties are held accountable. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also be able to advise victims and their families about how their auto insurance policy might apply to the accident if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured.
What steps do you take to avoid drunk driving and to avoid getting hit by drunk drivers?
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.
SLS Consulting