San Bernardino County, CA (November 18, 2023) A man was killed and another person was injured in San Bernardino County on Thursday, November 16th, according to authorities. It all began around 10:39 a.m. when officers received a call about a stolen vehicle near Mt. Vernon and Johnston Avenue in Colton.
Colton police officers found the vehicle and attempted to pull it over, but the red 1999 Ford Expedition SUV didn’t stop. Instead, the driver led officers on a high-speed chase. The driver, identified only as a male, headed north on Mt. Vernon before turning east onto 2nd street in San Bernardino.
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As he sped down the road, trying to get away from police officers, he collided with another vehicle that was exiting the 215 Freeway onto 2nd Street, according to the Cotlon Police Department. This didn’t stop the suspect, who continued driving until he crashed into a traffic sign pole at a high speed.
Officers cautiously approached the vehicle, only to discover that the suspect had been killed in the collision. He was pronounced dead at the scene and a medical examiner was called.
Paramedics arrived and found the driver of the car that had been struck was injured. They transported the driver to a nearby hospital for treatment of unknown injuries.
Crews were called to clean the scene of glass and debris and a tow truck was called to remove the 1999 Ford Expedition, which was badly damaged, from the scene.
Liability In San Bernardino County 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 San Bernardino County Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the person killed in this collision. 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.
Do you need more information about a San Bernardino car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.