Clark Township, Ohio (November 27, 2023) Erica Cox, 19, was killed in a head-on collision in Clark Township on Saturday night, November 25th, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. 21-year-old Philip Cranfill was injured in this collision.
Cox was driving west on State Route 744, according to the Ohio State Patrol’s investigation. At the same time, 21-year-old Cranfill was heading east on the same road when, for reasons, unknown, they collided head-on. Emergency crews quickly arrived at the scene and found the drivers of both vehicles seriously injured.
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Paramedics at the scene called for a helicopter transport for both injured victims. An AirCare helicopter arrived and transported both victims to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. Both Cox and Cranfill were said to have sustained life-threatening injuries in the crash. The Ohio State Patrol later reported that Cox had died at the hospital. Cranfill is currently still in serious condition, according to medical personnel.
Tow trucks were called to the area to remove the damaged vehicles from the roadway and crews cleaned the area of glass and debris. Investigators worked to find evidence and learn what actually happened on State Route 744.
Officers are still unsure as to what happened to cause this fatal crash. It has not been said whether or not they suspect drugs or alcohol to be factors in this collision. Authorities are investigating this accident to try and determine what exactly happened and who was liable for this Clark Township head-on collision.
The community is mourning Erica Cox, who graduated from Bethel-Tate High School just last year. Her karate instructor said that the entire community has been stunned by her death.
Liability In Clark Township 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 Ohio Vehicle Code 451142, 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 Clark Township Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Erica Cox. 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 Clark Township 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.