US 50 Accident Involves Overturned Single Vehicle
A solo vehicle accident occurred in Rancho Cordova on January 6, which trapped the driver inside the car after it overturned. The accident was reported around 1:39 in the afternoon on westbound US 50 at the Zinfandel exit ramp, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). It was reported that the vehicle’s driver appeared to be driving recklessly just before the crash in Rancho Cordova when it overturned.
Driver Trapped in Overturned Vehicle on Exit Ramp
The vehicle landed on the Zinfandel off-ramp to US 50, trapping the party inside. Emergency responders with the Sacramento Fire Department arrived to extricate the driver from the vehicle at its location in the cloverleaf for the entrance ramp.
SMUD Called to Make Repairs After Light Pole Is Downed
A light pole was knocked down during the solo vehicle accident, and wiring was exposed. Workers with the Sacramento Municipal Utility District were expected to arrive to take care of the downed pole and hazard caused by the exposed wiring. As of the time of this report, no information was released on any injuries in the accident. The CHP is conducting an investigation to determine how it occurred.
Causes of a Solo Vehicle Accident
While many solo vehicle accidents occur because of driver error, this is not the only reason. Documented reasons for such accidents can be attributed to auto defects, including:
- Accelerator defect: Many instances of accelerator defects have been reported over the years. Drivers suddenly find that the accelerator is stuck in the downward position, and they are unable to change it. Because of this, the driver appears to be acting irresponsibly when it is not their fault. When this happens, the driver loses control over their car, and a solo vehicle accident can happen.
- Steering wheel problems: Many times, the vehicle’s steering wheel can suddenly pull to one side. This makes it impossible for the driver to maintain his or her lane. It can be caused by a fluid leak that occurs suddenly and without warning. It can also be caused by a defect in the steering column itself.
- Brake failure: This abnormality can occur due to a manufacturing defect or loss of brake fluid. It can also happen due to shoddy work by a mechanic.
- Sudden power failure: In some vehicles, the engine may suddenly turn off, making it impossible for the driver to control the steering. This can easily lead to a solo vehicle accident.
Manufacturer Responsibility in a Solo Vehicle Accident
It is incumbent on a manufacturer to produce a safe product that is free of defects. When this does not happen, and someone is injured or killed because of it, a lawsuit can be filed against the manufacturer. This is called a product liability lawsuit. In California, it is not necessary to prove negligence in such cases under the rule of strict liability. Instead, the injury attorney must prove that the product was used in a manner in which it was intended and that no alterations had been made.
Investigating a Solo Vehicle Accident
At our law firm, we send our investigative team to the scene of the accident to find out why it happened and who bears responsibility for the crash. This is done by speaking to witnesses, obtaining video evidence, and reviewing police reports. Our engineers also examine the vehicle for defects, which is one reason a car must be preserved after an accident. Once our investigators have gathered all the evidence, the information is turned over to our injury attorneys, who use it to develop a strong case against the at-fault party.
Sacramento Personal Injury Lawyer
My name is Ed Smith, and I’m a Sacramento personal injury lawyer. If you or your loved one was injured by a negligent driver or other entity, I am here to offer you my free, friendly advice when you call me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. An online message form is available too.
My law office has successfully handled many compensation cases involving traffic accidents, wrongful deaths, and traumatic injuries for the past 38+ years. Call to see if we can help you too.
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Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/car-accident-clash-rome-highway-2165210/
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