Stockton, CA (November 17, 2023) A man lost his life in a multi-vehicle collision on Wednesday, November 15th, in Stockton, according to the California Highway Patrol. The crash took place on Highway 4 near Highway 99, just a few minutes after 5:30 a.m.
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Authorities reported that it was foggy that day, making the roadways more difficult to see. A 35-year-old man was driving east on Highway 4 and veered into the westbound lanes in an attempt to pass slower traffic in front of him. Just as he did this, a Volvo big rig appeared in the fog. The first driver tried to avoid hitting the big rig, but he didn’t have enough time. The two vehicles crashed, head-on, which sent the man’s car spinning into the eastbound lanes of traffic. There, he collided with a Toyota and a Hyundai before being hit by a Ford that was unable to see him in the fog. The Ford struck the passenger side of the car, forcing him into a nearby embankment on the side of the road.
Emergency crews raced to the scene to find multiple damaged vehicles blocking the highway. Paramedics rushed to help those in need, but found the 35-year-old man deceased. He was pronounced dead at the scene and the coroner was called.
The Highway was closed for a while as investigators worked the scene and crews worked to remove the cars and debris from the roadway. Officers are still working to determine what exactly happened on Highway 4 in Stockton.
Liability In Stockton 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 Stockton Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the man 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 Stockton 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.
