Man Killed in San Bernardino Car Accident

Authorities have identified a man killed in a San Bernardino car accident as 38-year-old Eric Sandor Valenzuela. The San Bernardino Sun reports that the accident occurred the morning of March 8, 2010 at the intersection of Air Expressway Boulevard and Gas Line Road in Victorville. Valenzuela was going north on Gas Line in a Hyundai Accent when he tried to make a left turn and struck a big rig. Valenzuela died at the scene of the accident.

My heart goes out to the family and friends of Valenzuela for their devastating loss. I offer my deepest condolences to them. They will be in my prayers.

Car Accidents

There were 16 fatalities and 266 injuries involving car accidents in Victorville, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). Countywide, 263 fatalities and 8,504 injuries were reported as a result of car accidents in 2008.

The Law Pertaining to Left Turns

California Vehicle Code section 21801 (a) states the following requirements for drivers making a left turn: "The driver of a vehicle intending to turn to the left or to complete a U-turn upon a highway, or to turn left into public or private property, or an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all vehicles approaching from the opposite direction which are close enough to constitute a hazard at any time during the turning movement, and shall continue to yield the right-of-way to the approaching vehicles until the left turn or U-turn can be made with reasonable safety."

It is not clear how exactly this car versus truck accident occurred. I trust officials are looking into whose fault this accident was and whether one of the drivers failed to yield right-of-way at the intersection.

Wrongful Death Claim

In this particular case, if the truck driver is determined to have been at fault, then he and his employer could be held responsible for the accident and resulting injuries. An experienced California personal injury lawyer who has successfully handled truck accident cases, will be able to advise victims and their families about their legal rights and options.

We are not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons named in this article and their family members.