Mendocino County, CA (November 29, 2023) 37-year-old Erica Gonzalez was killed in a car accident on State Route 253 in Mendocino County, the California Highway Patrol reported. The vehicle not only crashed into a tree but also rolled several times, throwing Gonzalez from the vehicle. Officers said they believe the accident happened late at night on November 27th or in the very early morning hours on the 28th.
Erica Gonzalez was driving a red Honda Civic east on State Route 253 at an unknown speed. The road contains a slight curve and as Gonzalez approached the curve, she veered off the road and onto a steep grass embankment. The Honda rolled down the embankment, which was said to be around 400 feet, before slamming into a tree before continuing to roll several more times. As you can imagine, the vehicle sustained major damage in the fall.
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Unfortunately, Erica Gonzalaz was thrown from the vehicle as it rolled. Emergency crews arrived at the scene and found her lying several feet from the vehicle, unresponsive. Paramedics were rushed to help, but sadly, Gonzalez died from her injuries.
The red Honda Civiv had to be pulled from the embankment and towed from the scene and crews had a trail of glass and debris to clean up following the investigation at the scene. The investigation into Gonzalez’s death is being handled by the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) and at this time, officials do not believe that Gonzalez was under the influence of drugs or alcohol at the time of this deadly crash.
Fault In A Mendocino County Car Accident
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 Mendocino County Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Erica Gonzalez during this difficult time of loss. Anyone who may have information about what happened to Erica Gonzalez 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 Mendocino County 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.