Tragic Accident Occurs on River Road When Car Plunges Into River
A tragic accident on August 27 claimed the life of a driver after his vehicle went out of control and plunged into the Sacramento River close to Walnut Grove. A report released by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) said that Nicolas Orozco, age 27, was over the levee on River Road near Vorden Road at about 4:45 p.m. He, unfortunately, lost control of the 2020 Toyota Camry that he was driving, which led to his death.
Man Identified in Tragic Accident
Orozco was a resident of Kerman, California, a town near Fresno. The vehicle went over the embankment and tumbled into the river. It took several hours before the drowning accident rescue team of Sacramento County could remove the vehicle. Orozco was declared deceased at the scene by the Sacramento County Coroner.
Witnesses Report That the Driver Was Speeding
Witnesses at the accident scene reported that the driver was speeding when the incident occurred. Investigators with the CHP did not know if alcohol or drug use played a part in the tragic accident but said excessive speed on this dangerous stretch of roadway might have led to the fatal crash. An investigation into the cause of the accident is still underway.
Speeding and Accidents
Speeding is one of the major causes of a tragic accident that results in fatalities or serious injuries. When a driver is going above the speed limit, it means they are more likely to lose control as well as slow down safely in an emergency. In 2018, speeding was responsible for 26 percent of all accident deaths and kills an average of 26 people each day.
Other Causes of Single-Vehicle Crashes
Although driver error is often responsible for an accident, not all collisions are caused by the motorist. Outside influence can be the reason for a single-vehicle crash. Some of the ways in which this can happen are:
- Aggressive drivers: An aggressive driver performs actions such as tailgating, confronting another driver with angry words and gestures and other behavior. At its extreme, an aggressive driver can force another motorist off the road by causing them to take evasive maneuvers.
- Government negligence: Lack of maintenance to a roadway or poor design can lead to a tragic accident. Areas this includes are potholes, weak or aged guardrails, narrow lanes, debris and others.
- Inclement weather: Wet pavement, rain, fog or sleet can lead to a tragic accident. Although many motorists adjust their speed accordingly, not all do, which can lead to a serious collision.
- Motor vehicle defects: A vehicle that suddenly develops problems with the brakes, steering, accelerator or tires can experience an accident. In accidents that are caused by an auto part defect, the manufacturer and others in the chain may be held financially liable through a product liability lawsuit.
Accident Investigation
Obtaining evidence in support of a client’s claim is important to prove that an at-fault person or entity was the cause. Our investigators are highly experienced in doing this. Among other areas that are checked, the following is included:
- Our investigators perform accident reconstruction.
- The police report is reviewed for errors.
- Witnesses are interviewed.
- Surveillance footage is sought from traffic and other cameras.
- Signs of government negligence, such as weakened guardrails, are examined.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Sacramento
My name is Ed Smith, and I’m a personal injury lawyer in Sacramento. Car accidents can be caused by a number of different factors. Knowing why is important when claiming compensation for accident injuries or the loss of a loved one. You may wish to give me a call at (916) 921-6400 for my free and friendly advice or contact me at (800) 404-5400. Our easy to use online form is another option.
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I have successfully handled numerous cases involving wrongful deaths, traffic crashes of all types, and traumatic injuries since 1982.
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