Clear Lake, CA (January 4, 2024) Two women lost their lives on State Route 20 in Clear Lake on December 26th. Kimberly Renee Mitchell, 28, from Redwood Valley and Lisa Lopez, 46, from Lakeport, were identified yesterday, according to the California Highway Patrol. The deadly crash occurred just before 9:00 p.m., west of Bachelor Valley Road.
Lopez was driving west on Highway 20 in a Nissan Cube when, for reasons still unknown, she crossed the double yellow lines into oncoming traffic. Mitchell was heading east in a Honda Civic at the same time. Unfortunately, the two vehicles collided, head-on, at fairly high speeds.
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Emergency personnel arrived at the scene, ready to give aid. Sadly, both Lopez and Mitchell were pronounced dead at the scene, the California Highway Patrol said.
Tow trucks were called to the scene to remove the two vehicles, both badly damaged in the crash. Investigators searched for evidence and are still investigating this fatal collision to try and determine exactly what happened on Highway 20 that cost these two women their lives.
Liability In Clear Lake 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 Clear Lake Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the families of Lisa Lopez and Kimberly Mitchell. 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 Clear Lake 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.