Update August 26, 2022: The man who died in this crash has been identified as Anthony Brooks, 47, of Perris.
TEMECULA, CA (August 25, 2022) – A motorist died in a collision stemming from a road rage confrontation on Interstate 15 in Temecula, authorities said today.
The fatal crash happened at 8:20 p.m. Wednesday on southbound I-15 near Winchester Road, according to the California Highway Patrol.
Officer Mike Lassig said that the victim, identified only as a 47-year-old Perris man, was at the wheel of a Chevrolet Malibu when he got into an unspecified dispute with the driver of a Lexus GS450h.
“The preliminary investigation suggests the two drivers engaged in a speed contest and took turns sideswiping one another until losing control of their respective vehicles,” Lassig said.
The Malibu slammed into the center median wall, rolling at least once before coming to rest on its wheels in the No. 2 lane.
Lassig said that the driver was not wearing his safety belt and was ejected onto the freeway, suffering catastrophic injuries. He was taken to Inland Valley Medical Center in Wildomar, where he died a short time later.
Lassig said the Lexus spun out in the fast lane and came to a stop. The driver, identified only as a 38-year-old San Diego man, did not attempt to
flee. He was not injured. There was no indication of intoxication. No other vehicles were involved this road rage incident in Temecula.
According to Lassig, the Lexus driver was questioned by patrol officers at the scene but not arrested.
The investigation is ongoing, and CHP investigators are coordinating with staff from the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office in reviewing factors in the deadly crash and determining what charges, if any, to pursue, the CHP spokesman said.
Liability In Temecula 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 Anthony Brooks’ Road Rage Incident
We at Accident News Now extend our condolences to the family of Anthony Brooks in this case. 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 Temecula 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.