Hit-And-Run Fatality Occurs Along I-80 Near Citrus Heights
A hit-and-run crash near Citrus Heights on June 21 claimed the life of a female motorcycle rider. The deceased rider was identified as Shanel Allyn Griffin, age 39, and a Sacramento resident. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that the Citrus Heights collision happened along Interstate 80 shortly before 12:30 in the morning as she was heading west on her Kawasaki near Greenback Lane.
Further Information About the Hit-And-Run Crash
Emergency responders transported Ms. Griffin to a nearby hospital. However, medical personnel were unable to save her life. The motorcycle collision is being investigated by the CHP. They are asking anyone who has information about the hit-and-run crash to phone (916) 348-2300.
Causes of Accidents With Motorcycles
Motorcycle riders often suffer serious injuries when they are involved in an accident, especially one with a motor vehicle. In many cases, the motorist says they did not see the rider. This happens because a driver is conditioned to spot other vehicles only and doesn’t look for bicyclists, motorcyclists, or pedestrians. Some of the most common ways an accident with a motorcyclist happens are:
- A driver making a turn misjudges the distance of the motorcyclist.
- The motorist backs out of a driveway or parking spot without looking.
- The driver is speeding and cannot stop in time to avoid a collision.
- The motorist runs a red light and strikes a motorcycle in an intersection or stops suddenly when the light changes.
- The driver is distracted because they are texting, changing a radio station or other action that takes their eyes off the roadway.
Areas of Investigation Following an Accident
An accident investigation is an important part of a personal injury claim. This is because proof that the at-fault person caused the injury is needed. We begin by sending out our investigators to the accident scene to gather evidence and locate the hit-and-run driver. They work closely with the authorities investigating the accident and gather evidence. Fortunately, we have a good success rate at being able to find the errant driver by using proven investigative techniques. These can include:
- Examining the area for tell-tale debris or paint and tire marks that can help pinpoint the make and model of the vehicle
- Checking the police report for mistakes and interviewing witnesses to the hit-and-run crash
- Looking for video footage from business and traffic surveillance cameras
- Checking the forensic evidence by performing accident reconstruction
If it proves to be impossible to locate the driver, my office can also help you with other ways in which to collect compensation for your injuries. In this way, you may be able to collect the damages you need to pay your medical costs, wages that were lost while out of work, and other expenses.
How Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage Works
Many Californians carry an uninsured/underinsured insurance policy because of the high rate of drivers in the state without any coverage. It is offered to all California drivers at a reasonable rate and is optional. This insurance pays medical costs, lost wages and for pain and suffering. It also pays for funeral expenses. It does not raise the premium. If you do not have uninsured insurance and another family member does, you can use theirs.
Grief Following a Wrongful Death
Losing a loved one is tragic, but even more so if it was a wrongful death. Friends and family members may show their support by sending flowers, a card or calling. It’s especially important to be a good listener because a person who is grieving needs to talk. It’s part of the grief process.
Friends and family may also help in additional ways. Send over food and help around the house by cleaning the garden or mowing. Offer to accompany the person making the arrangements to the funeral home because this is one of the most difficult tasks they will ever do. Remember, grief and loss don’t stop after the funeral. Stay in touch, visit, and show your support in any way possible.
Sacramento Wrongful Death Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a wrongful death lawyer in Sacramento. Motorcycle riders have a right to compensation when they are injured by a negligent motorist or a family loses a loved one from a wrongful death. I may be able to help when you call for my free and friendly advice at (916) 921-6400. You can phone me at (800) 404-5400 long-distance, and an online form to reach me is available too.
Learn about my law firm by visiting:
I am a member of the Top 1 Percent and Million Dollar Forum.
During my 38 years as a Sacramento injury lawyer, I’ve helped many people from Sacramento and Citrus Heights to obtain the compensation they deserve. Although my main focus is on accidents involving trauma, traffic crashes, and wrongful deaths, I handle a number of other types of cases.
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/condolences-trauerkarte-letters-3991589/
:cd llo [cs 837]