PHELAN, CA (October 13, 2022) – One person, now identified as Anthony Michael Chesnut, 26, was killed in a Phelan accident on State Route 138 on Wednesday, October 12, and another left critically injured.
The accident occurred around 12:49 p.m. at the intersection of Oil Well Road and State Route 138 between a blue Dodge sedan and a Silver KIA sedan.
The California Highway Patrol is still investigation the collision, which closed the road for an unknown period of time. Cal Trans arrived for a hard road closure while the accident was investigated and cleaned up.
Emergency response from the San Bernardino County Fire Department arrived to find one person dead on the scene, and another in critical condition. The two vehicles involved sustained major damage.
Helicopter Air Rescue 306 arrived to transport the critically injured victim to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center.
This story is still developing, but we will update it when more information becomes available.
We at Accident News Now offer our condolences to the friends and family of the victim who was tragically killed in this case. We also wish a full and speedy recovery to the victim who was critically injured in this collision.
[via VVNG]
UPDATE OCTOBER 18, 2022: Anthony Michael Chesnut, 26, has been identified as the victim tragically killed in this accident. The family has set up a GoFundMe to help with expenses.
Liability In Phelan 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 Anthony Michael Chesnut’s Phelan Car Accident on State Route 138
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Anthony Michael Chesnut, who was tragically killed in this accident. 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 Phelan car accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys 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.