Los Angeles, CA (August 27, 2023) 3 people were killed and 2 others were left in critical condition after a car accident involving an Uber in South Los Angeles early Saturday morning. The California Highway Patrol said it happened around 5:30 a.m. near the intersection of Century Boulevard and Vermont Avenue.
The accident is being referred to as a “violent crash” and speeding seems to be a factor. According to the California Highway Patrol, a white Mercedes-Benz was driving north at a high speed on Vermont Avenue, in an attempt to beat a traffic light. The car hit a black Honda Sedan, driven by an Uber driver, head-on.
The force of the crash sent the Honda spinning into the road, according to witnesses. Authorities at the scene said that upon arrival, they found a body in the road. The person was a rider in the Uber who had been ejected from the car during the impact. They were pronounced dead at the scene.
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Another victim had to be extracted from the car. Another passenger was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver and a fourth passenger in the car were transported to a nearby hospital with critical injuries, according to police officers at the scene.
Witnesses said the Uber was stopped at the light, preparing to turn left when the Honda sped through the intersection and crashed into them. The Uber driver had no time to react because it all happened so fast, according to witnesses. The three victims were Veronica Amezola, 23, Kimberly Izquierdo, 27, and Juvelyn Arroyo, also 23.
Sadly, authorities at the crash site said this accident could have been avoided. They are currently investigating why the vehicle was speeding through the intersection and what led to this tragic collision.
Liability In 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 A Los Angeles Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the families of Juvelyn Arroyo, Kimberly Izquierdo, and Veronica Amezola. 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 Los Angeles 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.
