CAMP PENDLETON, CA (November 30, 2022) – A U.S. Marine was arrested today on suspicion of hit-and-run after the SUV he was driving collided with a sedan two months ago on Interstate 5 in Carlsbad, seriously injuring the other motorist.
California Highway Patrol investigators took 30-year-old Trevor Daniel Johnson into custody at Camp Pendleton in connection with the Sept. 18 crash, CHP public-affairs Officer Hunter Gerber said.
Shortly before 5:30 a.m. that day, Johnson’s Jeep Wrangler rear-ended a Nissan Sentra on the northbound side of the freeway near Poinsettia Lane, causing it to overturn, according to the CHP.
Following the collision, Johnson allegedly continued driving and left the area.
Paramedics took the 23-year-old Los Angeles woman who had been driving the Sentra to Scripps Memorial Hospital for treatment of severe but non-life-threatening injuries. She has since been released from medical care, Gerber said.
Johnson will face a charge of felony hit-and-run, the spokesman said.
[via CNS]
Liability In Camp Pendleton 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 Marine’s Hit-and-Run Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our well wishes to the woman who was injured in this collision and hope that she is recovering well. 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 Camp Pendleton 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.