Man Killed in Lakeport Single-Car Accident
A man was killed in a single-car accident in Lakeport on Monday, April 8, 2019. The victim has been identified as 20-year-old Ruben James Foreman of Lucerne. I would like to take this time to express my deepest sympathy to the friends and family of Mr. Foreman.
Accident Details
The accident happened shortly before 4:30 p.m. near the Nice-Lucerne Cutoff near Rodman Slough Bridge. According to the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Foreman was a passenger in a gold 1994 Acura Integra. The driver, 18-year-old Anthony Lopez of Lucerne was driving northbound on Nice-Lucerne Cutoff during rainy and cloudy conditions. The Clear Lake-area California Highway Patrol said Lopez lost control of his car when he tried to navigate a left curve. The vehicle traveled east off the roadway and crashed into a wooden fence. The CHP said Foreman, who was seated in the right-front passenger side, suffered major injuries.
Medical Response
Firefighters found Foreman unresponsive with serious injuries to his head. He was transported to Sutter Lakeside Hospital where he later died. A 16-year-old Lucerne boy, who was seated in the rear right passenger seat, suffered minor injuries. Lopez, the driver, came out of the accident unharmed.
The Investigation
The crash closed the roadway for a brief period, reopening later that evening. Authorities are investigating to determine the events that had led up to the deadly crash. The CHP said all three occupants were wearing their seat belt, and neither drugs or alcohol is a factor in the accident.
What Causes Single-Car Accidents?
Single-car accidents involve only one vehicle, as opposed to two or more vehicles, and can happen when the car:
- Crashes into a guardrail
- Hits a tree, pole, wall or any other stationary object
- Hits an animal
- Overturns on its own
- Spins out of control
- Veers off the road or highway
Injuries from Single-Car Accidents
Depending on the conditions of the road and the types of crashes, single-car accidents can often result in severe injuries. These can include:
- broken bones
- concussions
- deaths
- head injuries
- lacerations
- neck and back injuries
Who is Responsible for a Single-Car Accident?
When two or more vehicles are involved, determining who is at fault usually depends on who was negligent before the collision, however, establishing fault in a single-car accident may be more difficult.
Several parties can be held accountable depending on the situation. If the driver was speeding or disobeying traffic safety, he or she could be held liable. However, other parties can be responsible, such as:
- Vehicle Manufacturers: defective auto parts
- Other Drivers: road rage or objects falling from the vehicle
- Local Governments: poor road conditions or potholes
- Pedestrians: jaywalking or not obeying pedestrian rules
If another party is found liable for your injuries in a single-car accident, they may be required to pay for your damages, which include medical bills, lost wages, property repair, and other costs. Contact an experienced car accident lawyer for more information.
Lakeport Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Lakeport car accident lawyer. If you live in or around Lakeport and were injured in an accident, or lost someone in a crash, I can help you. Call me for free, friendly advice at (707) 564-1900 or (800) 404-5400. You can also reach us on our online contact form.
For over 37 years, my firm has won favorable verdicts and settlements for our clients.
I am a member of the National Association of Distinguished Counsel and the Million Dollar Advocates.
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