Two young men who were killed in a car accident in San Francisco have been identified as Robby Macam, 19 and Nick Sarmiento, 20. KTVU reports that the fatal crash occurred the night of September 4, 2010 on Lake Merced Boulevard near John Muir Drive when the Honda turned perpendicular to traffic and ended up colliding with a Toyota. The crash also left three occupants in the Toyota with critical injuries. An investigation is ongoing.
My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved Macam and Sarmiento for their terrible loss. I would imagine that these victims' family members have a number of questions as to how this tragic crash occurred. Please keep these grieving families in your prayers. I also pray that the three critically injured victims recover quickly and fully.
Car Accident Causes
Based on this news report, it is not clear how or why the Honda came to be stopped perpendicularly on the street. It is possible there was an auto product defect or malfunction in the Honda that caused the accident. It is also not yet clear whether speed, alcohol or reckless behavior on the part of the one of the drivers caused this tragic collision.
Fault and Liability
If this accident was the Toyota driver's fault, then, the families of Macam and Sarmiento could file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for funeral expenses, lost future income and other related damages. On the other hand, if this accident was the fault of the driver of the Honda, then, the injured victims in the Toyota could seek compensation from the deceased driver's estate or his liability insurance.
Victims or their families in such cases would be well-advised to seek the counsel of an experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer, who will be able to analyze all facets of the incident and ensure that the negligent parties are held accountable for their actions. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also be able to advise victims and their families about how their car insurance policy applies to an incident involving an at-fault motorist who is uninsured and underinsured.
What are some of the greatest challenges faced by injured victims and their families in the aftermath of a crash?
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.
