Two People Die on I-5 in Sacramento Wrong-Way Collision
A wrong-way collision near Sacramento International Airport killed two people along southbound Interstate 5 on June 19. The accident happened south of Powerline Road at about 12:30 in the morning, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). The drivers of both vehicles died in the crash. A female passenger riding in one of the cars, identified as age 56, suffered serious injuries in the wrong-way collision and was transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. Officials have identified the decedents as 60-year-old James Raymond Fristoe of Bieber and 49-year-old Jeffrey Alan Pettit of Sonoma.
Wrong-Way Collision Under Investigation
The identities of two of the people involved in the crash have not yet been released. It was not reported whether alcohol or drugs played a part in the crash. The incident is under investigation by the CHP to determine the cause.
Causes of Wrong-Way Accidents
Wrong-way accidents can happen for a number of reasons. However, the main reason is drunk driving. Because an intoxicated driver has problems with vision, dexterity and judgment, they will enter an exit ramp on the freeway or drive down a one-way street in the wrong direction. Other causes of wrong-way drivers include the following:
- Distracted drivers can miss an appropriate turn and end up going the wrong way.
- Poor lighting can cause a motorist to make a wrong turn.
- Fatigue can result in a motorist going the wrong way on a road.
- Poor visibility can prevent a motorist from seeing road signs.
- Poor road design and signage can lead to a wrong-way accident.
The Unexpected Loss of a Loved One
The loss of a family member is never easy. However, when the loved one is taken suddenly due to another’s negligence, the grief the family feels is compounded by anger and a need for justice. This is where an injury lawyer in Sacramento can help. Since a wrongful death claim is a civil action, it holds the at-fault driver responsible for the loss of a loved one.
Ways to Help the Family in Their Time of Loss
A grieving family often does not ask for help from relatives and friends. Yet, when assistance is given, it is appreciated. There are several ways to help:
- Be there for the family: Just letting the family know that you are there for them helps enormously. Call or visit and give the bereaved the chance to talk about the loved one they lost. Many times, especially in an unexpected accident, the loved ones might want to go over what happened. Let them lead the conversation and only offer advice when it is requested.
- Help with routine tasks: After a death in the family, there is little time to handle funeral arrangements and reconcile the loss of a loved one. Because of this, routine tasks fall by the wayside. Ask if you can help with shopping, picking up medical prescriptions at the pharmacy or taking children to and from school.
- Bring food to the bereaved: Despite grieving, it is important to remain physically strong during this trying time. Drop off prepared meals to the family, so they can warm them up quickly and easily.
Investigating a Wrongful Death
A wrongful death claim is filed by the family for a loved one who died due to negligence. Like other personal injury lawsuits, it is necessary to prove that using evidence found at the scene of the accident. Our investigators are dispatched quickly. They speak with witnesses who saw the wrong-way collision happen and obtain videos of the accident if possible. The investigators also review police reports for accuracy. Once the evidence is compiled, it is released to our legal team who use it to build a robust case against the at-fault driver.
Car Accident Lawyer in Sacramento
I am Ed Smith, a car accident lawyer in Sacramento. If your loved one was taken away by another driver, the family may place a claim for compensation. Even though it won’t bring back your loved one, it can help reduce the financial stress. Please phone me at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400 for my free and friendly advice. You may also contact me online.
Many Sacramentans have obtained fair compensation with my help over my 37 years as an injury lawyer, including in areas such as government claims, traffic collisions and traumas.
Discover more about my firm at:
I belong to Top 1 Percent and the Million Dollar Forum.
Photo Attribution: https://pixabay.com/photos/condolences-trauerkarte-letters-3991589/
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