Torrance, CA (November 14, 2024) A tragic accident occurred on the San Diego (405) Freeway in Torrance on Monday, November 11th. The collision involved several vehicles and claimed the lives of 24-year-old Luke Coughlin and 57-year-old Gregory Coughlin. The accident occurred around 11:45 p.m., not far from Crenshaw Boulevard.
Initial reports indicated that a white sedan and a gray Honda Civic collided in the fast lane and HOV lane of the southbound freeway. The cause of the collision remains unknown, but witnesses told authorities that one of the vehicles slammed into the center divider on the freeway. Debris from the collision landed in the northbound lanes, creating additional traffic hazards. According to reports, a blue sedan lost control and overturned, landing on its roof, in the fast lane.
Emergency personnel found Luke Coughlin and Gregory Coughlin deceased following the collision. They were both pronounced dead at the scene, according to reports.
Liability In Torrance Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Torrance Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the families of Luke Coughlin and Gregory Coughlin. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Have you or a loved one been injured in this accident? Our team specializes in car accidents and we are here to help! You can reach us 24/7 at (866) 945-4286 or visit our online contact form at Accident News Now.