Redlands, CA (November 28, 2023) – 38 year old Valerie Ibarra of Montebello tragically passed away recently after a severe hit-and-run crash on Alabama Street in Redlands, California on Saturday, November 25th. According to news source, The Sun, the accident took place around 6:25 a.m. at the intersection between Alabama Street and San Bernardino Avenue.
According to police reports a black Kia SUB was travelling east on San Bernardino Ave when it ran a red light at the intersection with Alabama Street. This led to a violent collision with an northbound semi truck. The Kia suffered major damage in the crash, causing some passengers to be trapped inside. The male driver of the Kia, somehow mostly unscathed, fled the scene of the crash on foot.
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Paramedics responded immediately to the accident and found all three remaining occupants of the Kia with severe injuries. While the truck diver sustained minor injuries. After performing life saving measures, they transported all three to Loma Linda University Medical Center in critical condition. Sadly, one of the victims, Valerie Ibarra, later succumbed to her injuries in the hospital.
Police are urgently investigating this hit-and-run case, hoping to uncover the identity and whereabouts of the driver and his relationship to the passengers, who owned the vehicle.
Liability In Redlands 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 the Death of Valerie Ibarra
We at Accident News Now extend our condolences to the family of Ms, Ibarra, and wish those who were injured a speedy recovery. 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 Redlands car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need assistance after an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.