Car accidents are an all too frequent occurrence in the San Diego area. Most are minor fender benders, but there are quite a few that have significant outcomes. Just recently, a man was killed and two others injured in a crash. The driver responsible for the collision is the one who failed to survive. What recourse is available to the victims in this type of situation?
What happened?
According to reports, on Tuesday, Oct. 19, at approximately 2:30 p.m., a 60-year-old male was operating his vehicle southbound and failed to stop at a red light at State Route 78 and Jefferson Avenue. When passing through the intersection, he hit an SUV and then a light pole. He was not wearing a seatbelt and died at the scene of the accident.
The victims
A total of two people were in the impacted SUV. Both suffered injuries that were reported to be minor. Neither victim was transported to the hospital for care immediately following the crash. If further injuries become apparent in the coming days, weeks or months — as they often do — it is suggested that they seek medical care immediately.
Holding the responsible party accountable
When the individual responsible for a car crash dies, victims may feel they have little if any recourse to seek compensation for their losses. This is not true. Not only can the victims in this case file claims with the responsible party’s insurance provider, but they may also file civil claims against his estate to pursue further compensation for their losses — which may include property damages, future medical expenses, pain and suffering, and a host of other damages both economic and non-economic in nature. An experienced personal injury attorney may be able to help them take the steps necessary to seek maximum relief for their losses.