The expectation when a driver enters their vehicle and joins other drivers on the road is that they will drive exercising caution and respect for others. Most California drivers make every effort to prevent car accidents by practicing safe driving skills. There are some drivers, however, who appear to have no regard for traffic laws as their behavior puts other drivers and pedestrians at risk of injury or even death. When such a driver is proven negligent in causing a car crash, the victims in the accident may have grounds for civil legal action in addition to any criminal liability that individual may have.
One driver, according to reports, recently disregarded our state’s traffic laws by running a red light, causing a multi-car accident. Several witnesses reported seeing the vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed through the light, before striking another vehicle, which ricocheted into a third vehicle. Two of the three people taken to the hospital because of the accident suffered serious injuries.
According to authorities, a suspicious substance was found in the vehicle that ran the red light. It is unknown what the substance is suspected of being and no arrests have been made at this time. Should authorities find that the driver of the vehicle was negligent at the time of the accident, such as having been under the influence of a substance, criminal charges could result.
In addition to any criminal liability, the injured victims may have the right to pursue civil litigation. Injuries resulting from any kind of California car crash can be quite costly. Those injured can be subject to a loss of income due to their inability to work, hefty medical expenses and other losses. The successful litigation of a personal injury claim can bring monetary relief in these areas and potentially others.
Source: cbs8.com, “Three injured after accident at 54th and University,” July 17, 2013