At least three people were injured in a Lake Forest car accident after a driver rear-ended a California Highway Patrol cruiser that was stopped along the northbound 5 Freeway to help another motorist. According to a news report in The Lake Forest Patch, the injury collision occurred the afternoon of August 4, 2012 on the northbound 5 Freeway near Lake Forest Drive. Officials say the officer’s cruiser was rear-ended when he stopped to assist a white Buick Riviera. At least three people were transported to area hospitals for unspecified injuries. An investigation is ongoing.
My thoughts and prayers are with the injured victims of this car accident. I wish them the very best for a speedy and complete recovery.
Crash Statistics
There were two fatalities and 180 injuries that were reported as a result of car accidents in Lake Forest in the year 2009, according to CHP’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). During the same year, 141 people died and 13,373 were injured due to Orange County car accidents.
Rear-End Collisions
Based on this news report, it appears that this injury crash was triggered by a rear-end collision. Rear-end accidents are often caused by drivers following too close behind another vehicle or by distracted drivers. California Vehicle Code section 21703 states: “The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon, and the condition of, the roadway.” California Vehicle Code section 21704 also states that the driver “shall keep the vehicle he is driving at a distance of not less than 300 feet to the rear of any other motor vehicle subject to such speed restriction which is preceding it.”
Fault and Liability
I trust officials are trying to determine in this particular case if speed, distracted driving, inattention or some other form of negligence played a part. In such cases, injured victims can seek compensation from the at-fault motorist for damages including but not limited to medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation and other related damages. Injured victims would also be well advised to contact a skilled Lake Forest personal injury lawyer who will stay abreast of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.
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