Huntington Beach, CA (March 7, 2023) A Huntington Beach man, aged 68, died today in a car accident involving two vehicles in Huntington Beach. The Huntington Beach Police Department received a call at around 3:30 p.m. reporting a collision at the intersection of Atlanta Avenue and Bushard Street. According to Jessica Cuchilla, the public information officer for the Huntington Beach Police Department, a gray Mercedes-Benz GLC and a silver Toyota Corolla were involved in the accident.
Based on the initial investigation, it was determined that the victim, who was driving the Corolla, was traveling south on Bushard Street and entered the intersection with Atlanta Avenue despite a red light. Meanwhile, the Mercedes-Benz was heading east on Atlanta Avenue and entered the intersection with Bushard Street when the traffic light was green. The two vehicles collided during this sequence of events.
The victim sustained severe injuries and was immediately transported to a hospital, where he was later pronounced dead, as confirmed by the Huntington Beach Police Department. The driver of the Mercedes-Benz, a 23-year-old man from Yorba Linda, along with his two adult passengers, sustained minor injuries and were also taken to a hospital. The driver of the Mercedes-Benz fully cooperated with investigators, and based on the available information, alcohol or drug involvement does not seem to be a factor in the collision, according to Cuchilla.
Liability In Huntington Beach 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 the Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the man who was tragically killed in this collision.
The department’s collision investigation team is handling investigation of the crash and anyone who may have witnessed the collision or the events leading up to it is encouraged to call HBPD Traffic Investigator
Doug Demetre at 714-536-5670.
Do you need more information about a Huntington Beach 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.