Driver Merging on Interstate 5 Results in Hit-and-Run Collision
A hit-and-run occurred in Elk Grove recently when a motorist in a truck pulling a trailer was involved in an accident with a Prius. The driver of the truck then continued on without stopping. The accident, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) report, occurred at the Hood Franklin Road exit ramp around 1:15 p.m. in the afternoon.
Driver States Accident Was Caused by Merging
The driver of a Prius said the truck driver was trying to merge into their lane along northbound Interstate 5. The Prius ended up in the center divide along northbound I-5 just south of Q Street. One of the tires on the Prius had blown out. The CHP categorized the incident as a hit-and-run with no injuries and is investigating to find out how it happened.
Accidents While Merging
Merging on a highway can be dangerous and result in a frontal or rear-end collision or sideswipe. There are a number of reasons why they occur, including:
- A driver in the adjacent lane will not allow a vehicle to merge. This can result in angering that driver, so they try and force themselves into the lane.
- The driver tries to make a lane change while speeding.
- Two drivers are trying to change lanes at the same time.
- A motorist is trying to merge without signaling drivers in the other lane.
- A driver moves over multiple lanes at the same time.
- The driver cuts off another motorist, causing them to slam on their brakes.
Injuries in a Highway Accident
Because vehicles are traveling at a high rate of speed when on a highway, severe injuries can occur. The type of injury depends on where the vehicle is impacted, but can include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Broken bones
- Soft tissue damage
- Chest trauma
- Spinal cord or back injuries
- Amputations
- Abdominal trauma
Liability in a Highway Accident
When a highway accident injury occurs, that was caused by a negligent motorist, having a seasoned Elk Grove lawyer to help you is important. Recovering compensation means that all the medical costs will be recovered, as well as lost wages and for your pain and suffering. Over the years, I’ve successfully handled many cases of this type.
Investigating a Hit-and-Run
To support a claim for injury damages, it must be proven that the negligent driver was the cause. This means that evidence must be gathered to support a client’s claim. Some ways we do this are:
- Our investigators review the police report for mistakes and talk to witnesses.
- Accident reconstruction is performed, and photos taken of the vehicles and scene.
- The investigators search for cameras that might have captured the accident on tape, including those along the road, traffic lights, and even witness cell phones.
- Possible government negligence is looked into, which may include blurry lane lines, poor lighting, or narrow lanes.
When the evidence is gathered, our lawyers use it to construct a case that benefits our client, whether during insurance negotiations or in court.
If a Hit-and-Run Driver Cannot Be Located
My law firm is often successful in locating a hit-and-run driver. However, if it isn’t possible, there is another alternative. The injured motorist can use their uninsured/underinsured car insurance.
Uninsured/Underinsured Coverage
This is an optional policy offered to all California drivers, which covers you whether you are in a vehicle, on a bicycle, or walking. If you do not carry uninsured/underinsured insurance, but another member of the household does, you can use that instead. It will not cause the rates to change.
Personal Injury Lawyers in Elk Grove
I’m Ed Smith, a personal injury lawyer in Elk Grove. Call for my free and friendly advice if a negligent driver caused your injuries at (916) 694-0002 or (800) 404-5400. You can also reach me online.
Learn about my law firm by visiting:
I’ve helped Elk Grove residents since 1982 to get fair compensation for their accident injuries. Areas of personal injury law I cover include all types of traffic crashes, wrongful deaths, serious injuries, and others.
I am a proud member of the Million Dollar Forum and the Top 1 Percent.
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/headlamp-accident-auto-blue-broken-2940/
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