Linda Saunders, 55, was killed in a Los Angeles car accident after she was struck by a vehicle on the 210 Freeway in La Canada. According to a news report in the La Canada Valley Sun, the fatal accident occurred the morning of July 27, 2010 near Ocean View Boulevard, when Saunders stepped out of her stopped car on to the freeway.
California Highway Patrol officials say it is not known why Saunders stopped her Volkswagen sedan on the right shoulder and why she got out of the vehicle. The female driver of the car that hit Saunders initially left the scene, but turned herself in to authorities a little later. Officials say it happened within a "reasonable time frame," which means hit-and-run charges will not be filed.
I offer my deepest sympathies to everyone who knew and loved Linda Saunders. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Los Angeles Car Accidents
According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 268 deaths and 25,588 injuries involving car accidents in Los Angeles. Countywide, 667 people died and 52,229 were injured as a result of car accidents during the same year.
Causes of the Accident
Based on this news report, it does appear that there are a number of unanswered questions here. Why did Saunders stop her car on the shoulder? Was there some type of mechanical problem with the vehicle? Why did she get off the vehicle? Was she in a traffic lane or still standing on the shoulder? Was the driver of the vehicle that struck her impaired, distracted, speeding or driving recklessly? The driver certainly made the right decision by turning herself in. Otherwise, she would have been looking at a felony hit-and-run charge in this case.
Laws and Liability Issues
California law requires motorists to stop and remain at the scene of a crash until authorities arrive. California Vehicle Code 20001 (a) states: "The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident."
In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is suspected, families of deceased car accident victims would be well-advised to seek the counsel of an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, who will analyze all facets of the incident and make sure that the negligent parties are held accountable. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free, comprehensive and confidential consultation to injured victims and their families.
Have you had a close call while pulling over on the freeway shoulder or getting off your car in an emergency situation?
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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