LOS ANGELES, CA (August 22, 2022) – Jamarae Keyes and Janisha Harris were identified as the two who were killed in South Los Angeles when a motorist allegedly avoiding an attempted police traffic stop sped into an intersection and slammed into their vehicle.
Jamarae Keyes, 38, died from blunt force traumatic injuries, the coroner’s office said. His city of residence was not available.
An autopsy was pending on 35-year-old Downey resident Janisha Harris, the coroner’s office said.
Paramedics were sent to the 200 block of West Manchester Avenue about 4:15 a.m. Friday, according to the Los Angeles Fire Department. Both victims were pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Los Angeles Police Department.
A man about 20 years old was arrested, and two young men in the car with him were detained pending further investigation, said LAPD Officer Jeff Lee. The suspect’s name was not immediately released. All three were taken into custody after trying to run from the crash scene, Lee said.
The suspect was driving a Cadillac in the area when officers tried to stop him for allegedly speeding, he said.
The driver kept going westbound on Manchester Avenue, ran a red light at Broadway and hit a BMW broadside that was southbound on Broadway, he said.
A truck and another vehicle were damaged in the crash, but no one was injured in those vehicles, police said.
[via City News Service]
Liability In South Los Angeles 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 Jamarae Keyes and Janisha Harris’ Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the families of Jamarae Keyes and Janisha Harris. 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 South Los Angeles 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.