Turlock, CA (January 2, 2024) Turlock high school basketball coach, John Williams, was killed in a 3-car collision that left 7 other people injured, according to the Turlock Police Department, The crash occurred at the intersection of Kilroy Avenue and Christofferson Parkway, authorities said.
CBS News reported that 48-year-old Williams was driving to a basketball game with his son at the time of the accident. Eight people were involved in this accident and all 8, including Williams, were sent to local hospitals for treatment. Williams later passed away at the hospital from injuries he received during the collision.
Have you been injured in a car accident? Has someone you know been hurt? We’re here to help! Reach out any time, day or night, at (866) 945-4286 or visit our online contact form at Accident News Now.
He is remembered by family, friends and students as someone who “always had the biggest smile on his face,” according to Turlock basketball coach Dough Cornfoot, who has coached with Williams for nearly 20 years.
The community is feeling this loss in a big way, especially at the high school basketball games, according to family and friends. Investigators do not believe that drugs or alcohol were factors in this collision that injured 7 and took Williams’ life. They are still investigating to try and determine the cause of this accident and who was at fault, authorities said.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to help Williams’ family during this difficult time of loss.
Liability In Turlock 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 Turlock Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of John Williams during this painful time. 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 Turlock 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 (866) 945-4286.
