CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (July 8, 2022) – Julien Nieves, a 9-year-old boy, died June 29 as a result of the Amtrak train accident in Brentwood according to Patch.
Julien Nieves, of Dixon, passed away at UCSF Benioff Children’s Hospital Oakland, according to the Alameda County Coroner’s Office.
Three others, Julia Mondragon, Maria Nieves, and Mercedes Regalado were killed on June 26, when an Amtrak train struck the vehicle they were in. There was a total of five passengers in the vehicle, including Julien Nieves, who was hospitalized along with another passenger after the crash.
Unfortunately, Julien succumbed to his injuries just two days later.
On Julien Nieves’ GoFundMe page, Daisy Morales writes:
“On Wednesday, June 29 our sweet Juli succumbed to his injuries and passed away to be with his Mami and his grandma, Mama Mari. On June 29, Juli became a true Superhero, his organs will be donated to give life to other children in need. Knowing that he’ll be living through another precious life brings our family solace while we navigate these difficult times.”
The site of the Amtrak accident had no markings or signals that would indicate a train crossing. The train struck the vehicle that Julien Nieves was in, veered off of the tracks, and hit another vehicle.
Liability In Brentwood 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 Brentwood Amtrak Train Accident
We at West Coast Trial Lawyers extend our deepest condolences to the family of Julien Nieves, and the families of those were killed that day in the same vehicle. 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 Brentwood Amtrak Train 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.