Vehicle Exits Ophir Road Off-Ramp Accident
An off-ramp accident in Auburn on April 29 caused major injuries. The collision happened around 6:39 p.m. along westbound I-80 on the Ophir Road off-ramp. A caller to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that he heard the loud collision from his backyard.
Authorities Investigating to Determine Cause of Off-Ramp Accident
The vehicle had overturned from the hill and passed down to the freeway, blocking the off-ramp. The injured party was transported to a hospital for further evaluation and treatment of their injuries. An accident investigation is underway by CHP Traffic to find out how the off-ramp accident happened.
Reasons Why Vehicles Fall Off Highway Ramps
Vehicles falling off highway ramps often happen due to a combination of factors, including driver error or external forces that are beyond the driver’s control. Following are some of the more common causes of an off-ramp accident:
- Driver error: When the speed limit is exceeded on a highway ramp, there is an increased risk of losing control of a vehicle while navigating turns or curves. In addition, when drivers do not adequately gauge their speed and braking force, they may find themselves running off the roadway.
- External forces: Weather conditions can play a significant role in causing vehicles to fall off highway ramps. For example, wet roads caused by rain or snow will make it more difficult for tires to grip the road surface, reducing traction and increasing the chances of sliding out of control. Additionally, strong gusts of wind can cause vehicles to drift off highway ramps.
- Road conditions: Adverse road conditions, such as potholes or debris, can disrupt the vehicle’s trajectory. Additionally, if cars are not properly maintained and lack proper traction due to worn tires, they may also be more prone to slipping off highway ramps. The government entity in charge of the roadway may be liable for injuries in an off-ramp accident if lack of maintenance or poor design was the cause. The time limit to file a government claim is only six months, so getting help from an accident attorney may be advisable.
- Defects in auto parts: There are many auto parts that can be worn or defective, that lead to an off-ramp accident. For example, brakes that fail can cause the driver to be unable to control their speed. A steering wheel that locks takes away the control the driver has over the vehicle. A stuck accelerator makes the vehicle increase in speed and the driver lose control. Keeping the vehicle intact following an off-ramp accident is important. In this way, it can be checked by professionals for defective parts. If a defect led to the collision, a claim for product liability is possible against the manufacturer, part designer and others.
The following video by accident lawyer Ed Smith provides helpful information on finding a lawyer:
Car Accident Attorney in Auburn
I’m Ed Smith. I’m a car accident attorney in Auburn. If the crash was determined to be the result of negligence, a personal injury claim might be possible. If you are interested in receiving free, friendly legal advice, call us either at (530) 392-9400 or at (800) 404-5400. Regardless of the type of accident you have, you can speak with a member of our team of accident attorneys at no cost to discuss your case during a consultation. Our free consultations, whether they are virtual or in person, can explain how you can obtain compensation for your losses. Our online form can also be used to contact us.
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Photo attribution: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DLQ8I1W1gR8&t=10s; Image by Hands off my tags! Michael Gaida from Pixabay
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