VAN NUYS, CA (June 13, 2022) – A 38-year-old man was killed Saturday night after evading police, crashing into street signs and vehicles, then hitting a tree according to Daily News.
It is unclear why the man was running from police as the Los Angeles Police Department say that the car was not reported as stolen. However, the man was speeding in his 1998 Honda Accord at speeds well over 110 mph. He was initially seen on the 210 freeway near Wheatland around 10 p.m. driving up to 117 mph.
Police chased the man when he exited on Glenoaks Boulevard and hit a street sign before turning onto San Fernando Mission Boulevard. Police then ended the pursuit as it became too dangerous.
The chase was then re-engaged when the driver was seen on the 118 freeway, and police continued to pursue the vehicle as it exited the 405 freeway at Rinaldi and onto Sepulveda Boulevard.
The pursuit was called off once again when the driver started heading west on the eastbound lanes of the 118.
The car ended up in the parking lot of a Target store in Burbank where police made an effort to stop the driver. However, one of the occupants of the vehicle jumped out and fled by foot, and the driver rammed a police vehicle and took off again.
Police ended their pursuit once again before the driver struck a Subaru, then slammed into a tree. The Honda driver died at the scene.
Investigators are currently determining why the driver was running from police and are looking for the passenger who jumped out of the vehicle and fled on foot.
Liability In Van Nuys 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 Van Nuys Car Accident
We at West Coast Trial Lawyers extend our deepest condolences to the family of the decedent in this case. 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 Van Nuys car accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys 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.