Fatal Car Crash on Highway 88 Near Ione
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported a fatal car crash on Highway 88 near the Ione area in Amador County on the night of Monday, June 14, 2021. The traffic collision occurred in the California foothills and involved two vehicles.
Details on the Fatal Car Crash Reported on State Route 88 near Ione
According to officials, a Stockton man was driving on SR-88 when he allegedly veered over the double-yellow lines and collided head-on with another vehicle. The passenger in the Stockton man’s car, along with both parties inside the other vehicle, succumbed to their injuries in the head-on collision.
A CHP traffic officer responding to the scene was able to pull the Stockton man from his vehicle before it was engulfed in flames. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment of serious injuries. A preliminary investigation by authorities suggested that driving under the influence of alcohol (DUI) may have played a factor in the fatal car accident. Additional information on the incident was not immediately available.
What You Should Know About Head-On Collisions and Wrongful Death Claims
People driving while under the influence of alcohol are a danger to themselves and others on the road. Getting hit by an intoxicated driver may be a life-changing event that often results in immense emotional, physical, and financial consequences. This is especially true in the case of a head-on collision caused by a DUI driver. Alcohol consumption may impact a driver’s ability to make safe decisions and pay attention to the road. In such a situation, you may want to seek the assistance of an experienced injury lawyer to seek financial compensation for damages incurred.
A loss of life caused by the careless or negligent actions of another individual or entity may be considered wrongful death. To recover financial compensation, it must be proven that the at-fault party owed a duty of care to the decedent, the negligent individual breached that duty, the breach of duty was the proximate cause, and damages were incurred as a result.
After a fatal car accident, the insurance company representing the at-fault party may attempt to convince surviving family members into accepting an initial settlement offer. However, survivors should consult with a skilled attorney as a full assessment of the ramifications of the loss should be conducted. The first settlement offer may not take into account the full extent of losses incurred, including medical bills, funeral costs, lost future financial support, mental anguish, loss of companionship, and more. For more details on the wrongful death claims process in California, watch the video below.
What are Punitive Damages and How Do They Apply to My Case?
Punitive damages, also known as exemplary damages, are awarded in wrongful death cases beyond compensatory damages. They are intended to serve as a punishment for the at-fault party and to deter them from engaging in similar egregious conduct in the future. The value of punitive damages is generally determined by the jury. In fatal car accident cases, punitive damages may be sought from the negligent driver if it is proven that they were excessively speeding or driving under the influence prior to the incident.
At our law firm, our attorneys will collect evidence, help you understand your rights, meet filing deadlines, and build a strong case for wrongful death damages on your behalf. We serve the Ione area, Amador County, and throughout California. Contact us today for free, friendly advice on your case and learn how our family can help your family through this difficult time.
Personal Injury Attorney in Ione
I’m Ed Smith, an Ione personal injury attorney. A head-on collision because of an impaired motorist driving the wrong way is among the most catastrophic type of accidents, resulting in serious injury or even death to those involved. If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a car accident caused by another driver in Ione or elsewhere in Amador County, our law firm is here to help you and your family through this difficult time. To learn more and receive free, friendly case advice, call (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400.
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