Conditions on California roadways could change in a split second. Even though a driver may have experienced clear roads with relatively little traffic, a car accident, for example, could quickly cause an extensive back-up. As such, drivers — including those who drive as part of their jobs — must remain constantly vigilant. Unfortunately, a recent accident that resulted in the loss of three lives could result in wrongful death claims.
The incident reportedly happened on a day in mid-July. According to reports, the accident happened on the northbound lanes of I-5. A 56-year-old driver of a tractor-trailer is said to have failed to stop for traffic that had stopped due to an unrelated traffic accident.
As a result, the tractor-trailer reportedly struck the rear of a van containing five people, causing the latter to strike the median. The driver, a 57-year-old woman, as well as two young girls, ages 6 and 10, died as a result of injuries suffered in the collision. Another 6-year-old was flown to the hospital with serious injuries, while a 19-year-old suffered minor injuries.
It is unclear if criminal charges are expected to be filed as a result of the accident, but the incident likely remains under investigation. In the meantime, the families of the deceased victims are now left planning the funerals of their deceased relatives. To help them cope with the financial stress that such unexpected losses can create, many in California who have lost a loved one due to another’s negligence choose to file a wrongful death lawsuit. An attorney with experience with such cases can help these surviving family members fully understand their legal option and initiate action.
