Jefferson Boulevard Accident Kills Husband and Wife and Injures Two Children
Two accident fatalities occurred in West Sacramento on February 15 when a car carrying a couple and their two children were struck in a head-on crash by a suspected drunk or drugged driver. The accident happened on Jefferson Boulevard, between Locks and Gateway drives, around 11:32 at night, according to a spokesperson for the West Sacramento Police Department. The family was heading home after attending a birthday celebration. Both the husband and wife died at the accident scene, and their two children, ages 3 and seven months, were injured in the crash.
Further Details About the Head-on Collision
The deceased were identified as 37-year-old Rasul Afzili, and his wife, Anila, age 29. Afzili was the owner of the Gyro King food truck, a familiar sight around West Sacramento. The infant has been released to relatives, while the older child is still reportedly in the hospital.
GoFundMe Set Up Following Accident Fatalities
The other vehicle’s driver also suffered serious injuries and was hospitalized. As of Wednesday night, that driver had not been placed under arrest. A family member has set up a GoFundMe site to raise money for the children’s education. It was announced that the children will be adopted by an aunt.
Unexpected Loss of Loved Ones
There are no words that can adequately express the sorrow family members experience when loved ones are killed by a negligent driver. In some cases, this negligence is egregious, and family members are justifiably angry as they grieve. They are caught in a web of sorrow and the need for justice.
Each of us, in our own way, looks to help those who are going through such a devastating loss due to accident fatalities. At our firm, we empathize with family members and work hard to help them through this trying time and the financial difficulties a wrongful death can incur.
Drunk Driving and Accident Fatalities
Drunk driving is a major reason for wrongful death in the United States. Over 10,000 people die each year in car accidents due to the actions of a drunk driver. This type of egregious behavior not only causes the loss of a loved one but it also rips families apart.
When egregious behavior such as drunk driving is responsible for the death of a loved one, it is possible to file a wrongful death claim.
What Is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A wrongful death lawsuit allows surviving family members to initiate a claim against the negligent party responsible for a loved one’s death. In this way, family members can obtain compensation for the loss they experience.
Watch the following video in which attorney Ed Smith explains a wrongful death lawsuit:
What Does a Wrongful Death Claim Do?
By filing a wrongful death claim, the survivors are able to be compensated for the following losses:
- The lifetime love the decedent would have provided
- The financial support provided by the decedent
- Loss of consortium
- The loss of emotional support
- For children, the loss of educational support as they grow older
- Loss of inheritance
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?
The following surviving family members can file a wrongful death lawsuit in California:
- Spouses or putative spouses can file a claim for wrongful death.
- Domestic partners are able to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
- Minors living with the decedent for more than 180 days prior to their death and who received at least half of their support from the deceased can file a claim against the negligent party or entity.
- Children can file a wrongful death lawsuit through an executor or guardian against the negligent party.
- Stepchildren are also able to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Minors Filing a Wrongful Death Lawsuit
The guardian of a child is able to file a wrongful death lawsuit on the child’s behalf. On the other hand, if the decedent’s estate files a wrongful death lawsuit, the child may be included and awarded compensation.
Sacramento Car Accident Lawyer
I am Ed Smith, a Sacramento car accident attorney. I have helped numerous Sacramento residents when their family was torn apart by the death of a loved one. Throughout this horrible time, I have provided them with free and friendly advice. If this has happened to you, just call me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400, or reach out to me online.
Over the past 38 years, I’ve fought for the rights of clients in wrongful deaths, car accidents, and other instances of trauma.
Please take a moment to learn about my practice using the following links:
I am very proud to be honored as a member of the following organization:
Attributed photo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B9-lg0clbRM; https://pixabay.com/photos/candle-light-candlelight-flame-2038736/
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