FALLBROOK, CA (June 17, 2022) – Michael Anthony Carmichael, 21, of Oceanside, was arrested for impersonating a Sheriff’s deputy according to San Diego Union Tribune.
Carmichael was dressed as an officer, with patches that would indicate he was from the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, when he pulled over a vehicle in his silver sedan with flashing lights in the front and rear.
Carmichael carried a replica gun on a utility belt that also had a baton and brass knuckles on it. Police found another replica gun at his home and a badge that said, “Special Police.”
A real deputy from the Sheriff’s department discovered Carmichael’s impersonation stunt when the deputy approached a fake traffic stop around 2 a.m. near South Mission Road near Fallbrook High School.
The real deputy assumed that Carmichael, dressed in a black shirt, patches and apparent holstered gun, was a plain clothes officer and decided to assist.
As the deputy approached, Carmichael ran into his car, shut off the strobe lights and headlights, and sped away.
The pursuing deputy decided it was too dangerous to follow the dark car given the surroundings, but later discovered the vehicle rolled over after it had crashed.
Deputies extricated Michael Anthony Carmichael from the car and extinguished a small fire that had been caused by the crash.
A woman in Carmichael’s vehicle was also treated for injuries and released by police after they believed she was not part of his scam.
Carmichael was arrested and booked into Vista Detention Facility for several felony charges.
The Tribune reports:
“You also have the right to ask a deputy for identification such as a photo I.D., badge and business card,” Garman said. “Pull over into (a) well-lit and busy area for other people to witness the interaction or traffic stop.”
Liability In Fallbrook 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 Fallbrook Car 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 anyone else who was affected by Michael Anthony Carmichael’s fraudulent traffic stops.
Do you need more information about a Huntington Beach 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.