Single-Vehicle Crash in Isleton Results in Fatality
An accident in Isleton on September 15 resulted in the death of a man in a single-vehicle crash. Officers with the California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that they arrived at about 3:30 in the afternoon to the crash site along Highway 160 southbound close to Vieira’s Resort. They discovered that an extended cab Dodge pickup had gone off the roadway where it had collided with a tree. The Sacramento County Coroner’s Office identified the deceased man as Philip Raul of Antioch, age 46. The CHP is investigating the Isleton accident to determine why it happened.
Wrongful Death in a Single-Vehicle Crash
When a vehicle leaves the road, killing the driver, it is necessary for the police and other investigators to determine why it happened. In some cases, the driver may have fallen asleep or was distracted. However, there are other factors to consider. One of the most common is that a defective tire, brake system, or steering mechanism may have been involved. In other cases, another vehicle may have caused the accident but left before authorities arrived. If a defective auto part was involved, a claim against the manufacturer could be made. In the event that another vehicle was involved, it is possible to use forensic analysis of the accident scene to clarify this. It’s also possible that the driver was trying to avoid debris in the road. Roads are maintained by government agencies charged with this job. If debris has been on the road for a while and it is not removed, the agency can be held responsible and the focus of a lawsuit against the government.
Single-Vehicle Crashes
Single-vehicle crashes are common in this country. This category includes:
- Rollover accident: There are of two types, tripped and untripped. The most common is a tripped rollover, where the tires hit soft dirt on the side of the road or the curb. They can also be due to uneven pavement such as that found in older roads or shoulder drop-offs. Rollovers are often fatal when the driver or passengers are thrown from the vehicle. Fatalities also occur due to a crushed roof injury. This happens when the roof is unable to withstand the weight of the vehicle. In the latter case, the manufacturer is responsible for the accident, and a product liability lawsuit can be filed.
- Run off-road accident: This occurs for a variety of reasons, and the vehicle may hit an obstacle such as a tree or light pole after leaving the road.
- Collisions with animals: Many times, especially on rural roads, the vehicle may hit an animal that has darted out onto the road. It is common, especially in the fall, that deer will be found transfixed by a vehicle’s lights. Even if the driver successfully avoids colliding with the animal, a single-vehicle crash may occur.
Wrongful Death Lawsuits
If a person dies in a single-vehicle crash due to another motorist, manufacturer defects, or even problems with the road design or lack of signage, a wrongful death case can be filed. This claim makes it possible for a family to be compensated for end-of-life expenses such as funeral and burial costs. It might also be able to provide recovery for the support the deceased may have provided had they lived. If a spouse is left behind, it is possible to claim loss of consortium.
Family Grief
At our firm, we understand the loss a family endures when a loved one is killed suddenly in a car accident. Going through the grief that follows is not easy. There are things a family can do during this difficult period. This includes maintaining their health by eating and sleeping appropriately and using each other as a support mechanism. Filing a claim against a negligent party can also become a way to address the anger families often feel.
What an Attorney Can Do for You
We dispatch our investigators to the scene of the accident to determine how the crash occurred. We gather evidence, interview witnesses, and obtain video footage from traffic lights if possible. We also examine the photos taken at the scene for additional forensic evidence. Once this is gathered, we turn it over to our lawyers who use it to build a strong case in your favor.
Sacramento Wrongful Death Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento wrongful death attorney. Single-vehicle accidents are unfortunately common. However, not all of them are caused by driver error. If you lost your loved one in an accident that might have been caused by negligence, I can offer you my free and friendly advice. Contact me at (916) 921-6400 within Sacramento County or (800) 404-5400 if you are calling from outside the area code. You can also contact me online if that is more convenient.
I’ve handled numerous traumatic injuries as well as all types of car accidents during my 37-year career as an injury lawyer. I can help you in obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Among the many legal groups I belong to, I am especially honored to be a California member of:
- The Million Dollar Advocates was established to recognize lawyers who had won more than one million dollars for a client through a settlement or verdict.
- Members of the National Association of Distinguished Counsel are chosen for their high standards of excellence in their legal practices.
When seeking legal advice, it is a good idea to look over client reviews of a law firm and cases they have resolved. This is why I include links to mine at the following:
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/condolences-trauerkarte-letters-3991589/
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