California Injury Blog
Four people were hospitalized in a Los Angeles car accident that involved several vehicles, including a police cruiser, the morning of August 30, 2012. According to a news article in The San Gabriel Valley Tribune, the multi-car crash occurred on the westbound 60 Freeway near Hacienda Boulevard in Hacienda Heights. Officials are still trying to determine what caused the LAPD Ford Crown Victoria, tow truck, Chrysler PT Cruiser, Toyota Solara sedan, Toyota Sienna minivan and Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck to collide. A woman inside the PT Cruiser was hospitalized, as were two men and a woman. None of the injuries appear to have been life threatening.
My thoughts and prayers are with everyone injured in this Los Angeles County car accident. I wish them all the very best for a complete and speedy recovery.
Los Angeles Car Accident Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2010 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), 77 fatalities and 4,595 injuries were reported due to car accidents in the unincorporated areas of Los Angeles County. Also, 530 people were killed and 50,153 were injured in car crashes during that same year, countywide.
What Caused This Crash?
Based on this news report, as many as 10 vehicles were involved in this crash. However, it is unclear as to precisely what led to this multi-vehicle collision. There are a number of unanswered questions here. Was one of the drivers speeding or driving recklessly? Did an unsafe lane change cause or contribute to the incident? Were some of the drivers following too closely? Did alcohol, distracted driving, or driver fatigue cause or contribute to the incident? I trust officials are looking into these and other issues in order to determine precisely what occurred here and why.
Liability Issues
In such cases, the at-fault motorist can be held liable for the injuries and damages caused. Investigations of multi-vehicle collisions can be lengthy and complicated because of the involvement of several vehicles, victims and insurance companies. Those who have been involved in such as collision would be well advised to seek the counsel of an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer before accepting a settlement from an insurance company. Do not sign any papers or give insurance companies access to information before you have talked to your lawyer. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to car accident victims and their families.