Chico, CA (October 27, 2023) A chain reaction crash occurred early Friday morning, October 27th, on Highway 32 in Chico, according to the California Highway Patrol. The collision took place in a construction zone around 2:00 a.m., near Meridian Road, just west of Chico.
The section of highway was under one-way control due to construction. Three vehicles were stopped, waiting for the pilot vehicle to announce it was their turn to go. As they sat, stopped and waiting, when a Toyota Highlander drove up behind them. It crashed into the vehicle at the back of the line and caused a chain reaction collision. The vehicle it struck slammed into the vehicle in front of it, forcing that vehicle to then hit the vehicle directly in front of it.
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The California Highway Patrol reported that the driver of the Highlander was going at least 70 miles per hour at the time of the collision. Two of the vehicles sustained major damage in the collision. Others only received minor damage and were still able to be driven.
Tow trucks were called to remove the two severely damaged vehicles from the crash site and paramedics came to the scene to assist anyone who was injured. No injuries were reported in this collision but two people were taken to a local hospital to be evaluated as a precaution.
Liability In Chico 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 Chico Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend well wishes to anyone injured in this chain reaction 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 Chico 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.