El Dorado County, CA (December 12, 2023) – 72 year old Monterey resident, John Rethke, was fatally injured on Friday, December 8th, in a severe car crash on Highway 50 in El Dorado County, California. According to CBS News, the accident took place at around 9:45 a.m. near Wrights Lake Road.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the police were dispatched to a the scene where they discovered a lone overturned sedan. Investigators determined that the car had struck a barrier on the north side of the highway at high speed causing it to flip over. The driver was unconscious and stuck inside.
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Paramedics and firefighters worked to extricate the driver from the sedan and began life saving first aid. Unfortunately the driver succumbed to his injuries and died at the scene. He was later identified as John Rethke. A female passenger was also helped from the car, but it is unknown whether she was injured.
The California Highway Patrol is investigating the death of John Rethke.
Liability In El Dorado 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 the Death of John Rethke
We at Accident News Now extend our condolences to the family and friends of John Rethke 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 Jose 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 those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need assistance after an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.