Clarissa Lewis was identified as the girl tragically killed in a Menifee accident on December 11.
MENIFEE, CA (December 13, 2022) – The 16-year-old girl killed when the sports car she was riding in slammed into a retaining wall in Menifee, injuring four other people in the vehicle, was identified today.
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Clarissa Lewis of Menifee was fatally injured about 6:20 p.m. Sunday on Old Newport Road, just east of Bristol Gate Lane, according to the Menifee Police Department.
Lewis was the front-seat passenger in the Tesla, being driven by another teen, with three additional teens in the rear of the car, Capt. Dave Gutierrez said. None of the surviving victims were identified.
“The preliminary investigation revealed the Tesla was going eastbound on Old Newport … lost control and struck a curb,” Gutierrez said. “The Tesla then left the roadway, struck a tree and then a brick wall.”
Riverside County Fire Department paramedics reached the location minutes later and pronounced Lewis dead at the scene.
Two youths were seriously injured, while another suffered moderate injuries, and a fourth escaped with minor injuries.
“The driver and surviving passengers fully cooperated with the investigation,” Gutierrez said.
All were taken to a regional trauma center for treatment and were expected to survive.
It was not immediately clear whether alcohol or drugs might have been factors in the crash.
“The Menifee Police Department sends our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased juvenile,” Gutierrez said. “We would like to remind all newer drivers to practice safe driving habits, to understand your personal and vehicle’s capabilities.”
[via CNS]
Liability In Menifee 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.
- Eyewitnesses 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 Clarissa Lewis’ Menifee Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Clarissa Lewis. 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 Menifee 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.