Car accidents: 1 dead, 1 critically injured in head-on collision

Shortly after 7 p.m. on a recent Friday, Los Angeles County Fire Department received an alert about an automobile crash involving fire. The California Highway Patrol also responded, and upon arrival, crews determined that two vehicles had crashed head-on. Reportedly, this was one of those car accidents in which one driver passed another vehicle without looking out for oncoming traffic.

CHP investigators prepared a preliminary report that indicates the 57-year-old pickup truck driver was heading west on Highway 138 when he came up behind a big rig. Without ensuring safe clearance, this driver allegedly proceeded to pass the commercial truck. At that time, a 60-year-old woman was eastbound on the same highway, and the two vehicles came together in a fatal head-on collision.

Authorities reported that the vehicle was on fire, and emergency workers determined that the woman did not survive the crash. Her death was pronounced at the accident scene. The pickup truck driver was transported to a hospital by helicopter. Reportedly, his condition was critical at that time. Although the investigation is ongoing, CHP investigators noted that alcohol or drugs might have played a role in this fatal crash.

When loved ones are killed in car accidents, the surviving family members may have to face unanticipated financial consequences at a time when they also have to cope with emotional trauma. The costs of end-of-life arrangements can be overwhelming because it is not typically included in a family’s budget. Fortunately, the civil justice system of California allows families to pursue financial relief. At this challenging time, many people in similar situations choose to utilize the skills of an experienced personal injury attorney who can navigate a wrongful death lawsuit to help recover damages sustained.

Source: signalscv.com, “UPDATE: Drugs or alcohol suspected in fatal crash Friday near Gorman“, Jim Holt, Oct. 30, 2017