A car accident in Los Angeles resulted in life-threatening injuries for a driver the morning of September 6, 2010. The Los Angeles Daily News reports that the crash occurred on the 405 Freeway near the Roscoe Boulevard on-ramp when an Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme was rear-ended by a SUV. The Oldsmobile burst into flames on impact. The driver was pulled out of the burning vehicle by several California Highway Patrol officers. He is said to be in critical condition. A man, who was driving the SUV, and his two children, escaped with minor injuries, officials said.
It is indeed fortunate that the driver of the Oldsmobile was not killed in this crash, thanks to the brave efforts of the CHP officers who saved his life. I hope the man has not sustained catastrophic injuries and pray for his quick and complete recovery.
Car Accident Statistics
There were 667 deaths and 52,229 injuries involving car accidents in Los Angeles County, according to CHP's traffic accident statistics. In the city of Los Angeles, 268 people died and 25,588 were injured as a result of car accidents in 2008.
Rear-End Collisions
Rear-end accidents are often caused by drivers following too close behind another vehicle or by distracted drivers. California Vehicle Code section 21703 states: "The driver of a motor vehicle shall not follow another vehicle more closely than is reasonable and prudent, having due regard for the speed of such vehicle and the traffic upon, and the condition of, the roadway." California Vehicle Code section 21704 also states that the driver "shall keep the vehicle he is driving at a distance of not less than 300 feet to the rear of any other motor vehicle subject to such speed restriction which is preceding it."
Compensation Issues
I would be interested to find out if a faulty engine or design in the Cutlass caused it to catch fire on impact. I trust officials are also looking into what caused the driver of the SUV to rear-end the Oldsmobile. Was the driver under the influence, distracted or traveling at an unsafe rate of speed? Injured victims in such cases would be well-advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer who will stay abreast of the investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.
Have you ever been the victim of a rear-end collision? We would like to hear about your experiences.
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.
