RIVERSIDE, CA (July 27, 2022) – One person was killed and four injured today in a fiery multi-vehicle crash in Riverside.
The crash was reported at approximately 12:48 a.m. and officers from the California Highway Patrol responded to the eastbound Riverside (91) Freeway between Van Buren Boulevard and Adams Street where they found two vehicles overturned and another on fire, according to the Riverside CHP.
Fire from the multi-vehicle crash in Riverside spread to the brush behind an apartment building in the 8700 block of Indiana Avenue, said Riverside County Fire Authority Battalion Chief Pat Hopkins.
Fire crews were able to control and extinguish the flames.
The crash left debris from the vehicles strewn across multiple lanes of the freeway.
The victim was pronounced dead at the scene, the CHP said.
Four people were taken to a hospital, two in critical condition and two with minor injuries, Hopkins said.
The CHP issued a SigAlert for the closure of all lanes of the freeway.
The cause of the crash is under investigation.
[via City News Service]
Liability In Riverside 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 Multi-Vehicle Crash in Riverside
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the decedent in this case, and we wish a speedy recovery to all those who were injured. 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 Riverside 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.