Red Bluff Fatal Collision Occurs Involving Motorized Wheelchair

Red Bluff Fatal Collision Reported on Antelope Boulevard 

A Red Bluff fatal collision unfolded on October 22 when a Ford SUV and a motorized wheelchair collided on Antelope Boulevard near the Sacramento River Bridge. Red Bluff Police Department officers were called to the scene at approximately 6:56 p.m. to address reports of a collision resulting in injuries. Upon arrival, officers discovered the SUV obstructing the eastbound number two lane of Antelope Boulevard.

Red Bluff Fatal Collision Involved Older Man in Wheelchair

Investigation revealed that a 64-year-old man was operating his motorized wheelchair against the direction of traffic, moving west in the eastbound lane. During this misdirection, a head-on collision occurred with the SUV. The driver of the Ford SUV suffered no injuries and showed no signs of drug or alcohol impairment. The driver was released from the scene after a routine medical evaluation and preliminary investigation.

Identity of Deceased Man to Be Released in Red Bluff Fatal Collision

First responders made life-saving attempts on the man in the wheelchair, but unfortunately, he succumbed to his injuries at the crash scene. Authorities are withholding the victim’s identity until they can notify his next of kin. 

Incidence of Those in Wheelchairs Who Are Struck by a Vehicle

Several factors contribute to the incidence of individuals in wheelchairs being struck by vehicles. One significant factor is the lack of accessible pedestrian infrastructure, such as curb cuts or ramps, which forces wheelchair users to navigate on roads alongside vehicles. Another contributing element is poor visibility, particularly during nighttime or adverse weather conditions, making it challenging for drivers to notice wheelchair users.

 Inadequate or non-existent crosswalks and pedestrian signals can also increase the risk of a Red Bluff fatal collision, as these elements are crucial for the safe passage of all pedestrians, including those in wheelchairs. Additionally, driver distraction, which includes behaviors like texting while driving, impairs the ability to notice and respond to wheelchair users timely.

Wrongful Death Compensation That Can Be Recovered

In a wrongful death claim where negligence by another person or entity was the cause, recoverable damages may include funeral, burial, or cremation expenses and the wages the deceased would have earned until retirement. A spouse can seek compensation for their loss of love, companionship, and affection. Minors in the family can claim damages for the loss of parental guidance and nurturing. 

The value of the deceased’s household services, such as auto and lawn care, childcare, laundry, and cooking, may also be recovered. In some cases, the loss of inheritance is compensable. 

Check out the video below, where attorney Ed Smith discusses filing a wrongful death lawsuit:

Experienced Wrongful Death Attorney in Red Bluff

I’m Ed Smith, a wrongful death attorney in Red Bluff. If a negligent driver has caused the loss of your loved one, our Sacramento injury attorneys are ready to offer you a complimentary and approachable case evaluation, providing guidance on the potential for a wrongful death claim. You can contact us locally at (530) 392-9400 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400 or online for immediate assistance.

We understand that selecting the right injury attorney can be a challenging decision. To assist you, we encourage you to read reviews about our practice and explore the successful outcomes we have achieved in Settlements and Verdicts. You are also welcome to check our reviews on Google, Yelp, and Avvo. Our dedication to excellence is recognized through memberships in prestigious groups like the Million Dollar Advocates and the Top 1 Percent, demonstrating our commitment to obtaining the best possible results for our clients.

Photo attribution: Image by Myriams-Fotos from Pixabay

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