Accident Involving Out-of-Control Van Ends in a Traffic Fatality
A traffic fatality occurred in North Highlands on October 2 as the result of a head-on collision. The accident was reported by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) around 12:30 in the afternoon along Roseville Road, near Watt Avenue. The driver of a Ford Econoline van, age 56 and a Sacramento resident, was going south on the road when his vehicle suddenly swerved onto the shoulder on the right and passed back across and crashed into a Ford Escape traveling north.
Van Experienced Rollover in Traffic Fatality Accident
The collision with the Escape caused the van to experience a rollover. The vehicle ended up in a parking lot, where it crashed into several unoccupied cars as well as a building. Emergency responders transported the driver of the Econoline van to a nearby hospital where he was declared dead.
Fatal Accident Under Investigation
The Sacramento County Coroner’s Office has identified the decedent as 56-year-old Mitchell Ray Green of Sacramento. The driver in the Ford Escape, a Sacramento man, age 46, received major injuries in the traffic fatality accident but is expected to recover. The accident is being investigated by the CHP to determine what happened. Officers reported that neither drugs nor alcohol were involved as a cause of the crash.
Head-On Collisions and Rollovers
Head-on collisions exhibit a high rate of traumatic injuries and fatalities. When a vehicle passes into an oncoming lane, the speed of both vehicles is combined. Traumatic head injuries are common in these types of accidents.
Rollovers
Rollovers are most common in SUVs, vans, and light trucks because they have a higher center of gravity but can occur with any vehicle. Rollover accidents are serious because the passengers inside are tossed around and may be ejected from the vehicle. Once the airbags deploy initially and then deflate, they offer no additional protection as the vehicle keeps moving.
In addition, a vehicle that doesn’t meet current standards may experience roof crush. Because there are a number of ways in which a vehicle defect can cause a rollover, it is crucial to have it preserved following an injury or fatality accident.
Following a Death
A death in the family is a traumatic event. Family members face a range of emotions from grief and disbelief to wondering why their loved one was snatched away and if they could have somehow prevented it. Family and friends don’t always know how to react, but the following may help:
- Be there for a family member or friend: One of the easiest ways to let a grieving person know you are there for them is to call or visit. It might be best to call before visiting to see if they are comfortable with your visit.
- Help with chores: An unexpected death catches the family off guard. See if you can help out by doing chores around the home by shopping or picking up prescriptions at the pharmacy.
- Offer to drive: Many times, the family members may not want to go to appointments by themselves. Offer to take them.
- Bring food to the house: A grieving person may not take the time to cook or eat. Dropping off a prepared meal or ordering takeout for them can be an enormous help.
Investigating a Traffic Fatality
Evidence is needed to prove liability in a wrongful death claim. We send our investigators to the accident scene where they interview witnesses, review police reports for mistakes, and obtain videos of the traffic fatality as it happened. They also use accident reconstruction techniques to determine liability.
If a rollover with a crushed roof is involved, our investigative team checks to see if the manufacturer complied with infrastructure standards to support the vehicle’s weight. If not, a product liability claim can be filed.
Once gathered, the data provides the legal team with the evidence it needs to proceed in filing a wrongful death lawsuit. The strength of the evidence is instrumental in building a strong case for our clients.
North Highlands Wrongful Death Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a North Highlands wrongful death lawyer. When a loved one dies because of negligence, the family may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim. Although it will not ease their pain of loss, it can help them avoid financial stress. Call me at (916) 921-6400 or from long-distance at (800) 404-5400 if you would like my free and friendly advice. I can be reached online also.
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Over my 38 years working as an injury lawyer, I’ve helped many people with their traffic collision cases, wrongful deaths, government claims, and traumatic injuries.
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Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/hands-open-candle-candlelight-1926414/
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