Individuals who ride as a passenger in a motor vehicle may have little to no say over the decisions of the driver. Should the driver exhibit negligent or reckless behavior, the safety of everyone involved may be at risk, and even a single-vehicle crash could lead to life-altering injuries, or worse. A recent car accident involving the suspected presence of impairment has reportedly claimed the life of a passenger and left three others with injuries in California.
Single-vehicle crash
According to reports, authorities responded to the scene of a single-vehicle crash at around 8:30 a.m. on a recent Friday. Initial investigations indicate the incident began when the driver suddenly lost control of the vehicle and veered off course. The vehicle proceeded to crash into several objects, including a tree and a boulder, before running into a fence and coming to a halt.
Law enforcement agents have advised that one passenger within the vehicle suffered fatal harm and died at the scene of the crash. The driver and a second passenger were reportedly rush to a hospital for treatment of severe injuries, while a third passenger suffered only minor harm. Authorities also say that an investigation into the incident indicates that impairment may have been a contributing factor in the crash.
Injury and loss
Suffering serious injuries or sudden loss in a car accident due to the negligent actions of another party can be a harrowing experience. Following the crash, the victim or surviving loved ones of the deceased could consider speaking with a personal injury attorney for guidance on the next steps to take to seek restitution in civil court. An attorney can help a client in California better understand all the available options and assist in preparing to pursue the restitution entitled through a claim against the party deemed responsible.
