Multiple Rollovers and Hit and Run in Striker Avenue Accident
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento car accident lawyer. An April 20 hit and run accident between three vehicles in North Sacramento caused injuries to at least one person. Multiple rollovers occurred with two of the overturned vehicles blocking the street, necessitating its closure while the accident site was cleared.
The crash occurred shortly before 8:00 in the morning along Striker Avenue near the intersection with National Drive in the northern part of the city. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that it involved a semi-truck, a black motor vehicle and a third vehicle that was not described in detail. The force of the collision caused multiple rollovers with the big rig turning over onto its side and the black sedan landing on its roof.
Involved Vehicle Leaves the Scene
According to reports, the third vehicle involved left the scene of the accident, and an alarm was sounded for a felony hit and run, which is leaving the scene of an accident with injuries or death. The southbound lanes of Striker Avenue were closed while authorities investigated the accident scene.
Ambulance Summoned for Injured
At least one individual was injured during the collision. The identity or condition of the wounded or how many others were hurt was not available.
Leaving the Scene of the Accident Is a Criminal Offense
Hit and run drivers who leave the scene of an accident with injuries or death are usually charged with a felony. Depending on the extent of the injuries, the driver can be imprisoned for one to four years with a fine of $1,000 to $10,000. If the driver was drunk at the time of the hit and run crash, he or she would face additional consecutive jail time and fines.
Criminal Vs. Civil Cases
In a civil case, the burden of proving a claim against the defendant is on the plaintiff. The standard of proof in these cases is satisfied by the balance of probability or the preponderance of the evidence. This means that more than 50 percent of the evidence has been proven. Evidence in a criminal case must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt as opposed to the lesser requirements for civil cases.
How This Helps a Civil Case
If both civil claims and criminal charges are brought against a driver, the stronger evidence used to convict the driver in a criminal case, such as a hit and run, can be used in the civil case. It is used as proof of the claims made against the defendant. For example, if a driver is convicted of criminal charges in a felony hit and run, the evidence will need to be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. The car accident lawyer in a civil case can use the conviction as proof of the egregious, negligent behavior of the defendant in civil proceedings.
Rollover Accidents Related to Vehicle Height
Rollover accidents are more likely in a vehicle with a high center of gravity. SUVs, trucks, and buses all share a high center of gravity. This weight distribution makes it easier for a rollover to happen. Other factors contribute, including turning quickly, speeding, hitting a guardrail, pavement that is rough or the vehicle hitting the dirt at the side of the road.
How a Vehicle Landing on Its Roof Is Dangerous
A rollover can cause the vehicle to end up on its roof. This is problematic in several ways. For instance:
- Crushing: When a car ultimately lands on its roof, the roof may not withstand the force and collapse inward. This can cause crushing injury to passengers. Low roof strength might be considered a manufacturing defect in some cases.
- Impact with objects in the vehicle: Vehicles often roll over several times before stopping. This increases the chance that passengers will strike objects in the car, including the roof. The force is capable of causing severe injury such as brain trauma.
Sacramento Car Accident Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Sacramento car accident lawyer. When people experience serious injury due to the negligence of someone else, they need the help an injury lawyer can provide. If this happens to you or a loved one, give me a call at (800) 404-5400 or (916) 921-6400 anytime for friendly and free advice.
I have been here for numerous clients in Sacramento and Northern California when they needed me. I’ve sought to make sure they receive the compensation in many types of accidents and wrongful death cases.
I am a California member of the Million Dollar Forum, a group comprised of top trial attorneys throughout the nation who have won a verdict in excess of $1 million for past clients.
Before calling my office, you may want some background information on my practice. I’ve made it easy to do. Just go to the following pages to see client comments and reviews as well as how I resolved other cases.
Photo Attribution: https://www.pexels.com/photo/traffic-cars-street-traffic-jam-7674/
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