Shingletown, CA (November 1, 2023) Three people lost their lives on Halloween night in a collision on Highway 44 in Shingletown. According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision occurred just minutes before 8:00 p.m. near Brush Creek Lane.
A 1995 Toyota 4 Runner was heading west down Highway 44 at an unknown speed when a deer stepped onto the roadway. The driver attempted to avoid the deer by swerving and ended up driving off the north edge of the Highway. The California Highway Patrol reported that the vehicle overturned onto its driver’s side before hitting a decent-sized pine tree in the area. The vehicle was then forced to come to a stop.
The impact from hitting the pine tree caused extensive damage to the vehicle, especially the passenger side compartment.
Have you or someone you know been injured in an accident? Reach out to us at any time at 844-966-0965
The Shingletown Volunteer Fire Department arrived at the scene and paramedics were ready to help those who were injured. Sadly, 3 people lost their lives in this accident and were pronounced dead at the scene by authorities. Two other people inside the vehicle, identified only as juveniles, were seriously injured in the rollover collision. Paramedics quickly loaded them into ambulances and rushed them to Mercy Medical Center in Redding. Upon arrival, they were then flown to UC Davis to receive treatment.
According to the California Highway Patrol Incident report, four of the five people inside the vehicle weren’t wearing their seatbelts at the time of the collision.
Liability In Shingletown 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 Shingletown Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the families of the 3 people killed in this tragic accident. 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 Shingletown 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.