NEWPORT BEACH, CA (June 13, 2022) – A woman and her dog were tragically killed in a fiery Newport Beach accident according to CBS News.
The accident occurred Sunday evening around 8 p.m. near San Joaquin Hills Road and Newport Ridge Drive.
The cause of the accident is still under review by the Newport Beach Police Department Major Accident Investigation Team.
The two-vehicle accident caused one of the vehicles to burst into flames. A woman and dog were fatally injured, and two teens sustained major injuries.
It is unknown whether drugs or alcohol were factors in this accident. The name of the woman who was killed is being withheld pending the investigation and notification of next of kin.
UPDATE JUNE 15, 2022: The woman who was killed in this fiery Newport Beach accident has been identified by the Orange County Coroner’s office as Donna Wildrick, 60.
Liability In Newport Beach 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 Newport Beach Car Accident
We at West Coast Trial Lawyers extend our deepest condolences to the family of Donna Wildrick. 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 Newport 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.