A 59-year-old woman who was killed in a San Francisco area car accident has been identified as Patricia Woodrow. The Press Democrat reports that the fatal crash occurred the evening of July 4, 2010 on Highway 101 when Woodrow drove into opposing lanes of traffic and slammed head-on into a Toyota pickup truck. The two people in that vehicle – Monica Winu and 58-year-old Paul Webb – sustained major injuries. Woodrow was transported to an area hospital where she was pronounced dead. An investigation is ongoing and officials have not ruled out the involvement of alcohol or drugs.
I offer my deepest condolences to everybody who knew and loved Patricia Woodrow for their devastating and tragic loss. I hope Webb and Winu have not suffered catastrophic injuries and pray for their quick and full recovery.
Traffic Accidents
In Mendocino County, there were 26 deaths and 439 injuries as a result of car accidents in 2008, according to California Highway Patrol's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In Willits where this crash occurred, there were no deaths, but eight people were injured as a result of car accidents during the same year.
Fault and Liability
Based on this news report, we do not know if any vehicle defects or malfunctions caused this tragic crash. It is also not clear if a dangerous or defective roadway condition led to this crash. If Woodrow is determined to have been at fault for this accident, then Webb and Winu can file a claim against Woodrow's estate and her insurance to seek compensation for their injuries, damages and losses.
On the other hand, if a defective auto or dangerous roadway caused this accident, then Woodrow's family could file a wrongful death claim against the auto maker or the governmental entity in charge of maintaining that roadway. Under California Government Code section 911.2, any claim against a public entity must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injury. The best San Francisco personal injury lawyers, will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive claim evaluation to injured victims and their families.
In your opinion, what are some of the most common causes for head-on collisions?
None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.
