California Injury Blog
Phucdai Nguyen, 27, was killed in a motorcycle accident in Santa Ana after the motorcycle he was riding was hit by a truck that was pulling out of a driveway. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the fatal crash occurred on the night of June 13th in the 1200 block of North Euclid Street in Santa Ana. Preliminary investigation shows that Nguyen, who was traveling south on a motorcycle, was hit by a truck that was exiting a driveway.
Ongoing Investigation
Officers who responded to the scene located the injured motorcyclist in the roadway with severe head trauma. Paramedics treated the motorcyclist, but he died at the scene. The driver of the truck waited for the police to arrive and was cooperative. Officials said speed may have been a factor in this collision, but do not believe alcohol played a part. Officials are urging anyone who has information about this crash to contact Santa Ana Police Department’s Traffic Division at 714-245-8200.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of Phucdai Nguyen for their tragic loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Laws and Liability Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the motorcyclist was hit by a truck that was pulling out of a driveway. Under California law, motorists are required to yield the right of way to traffic – including other vehicles, pedestrians and bicycles – before entering or exiting an alley or driveway.
According to California Vehicle Code Section 21804 (a): “The driver of any vehicle about to enter or cross a highway from any public or private property, or from an alley, shall yield the right-of-way to all traffic.” Vehicles entering traffic “shall continue to yield the right-of-way to that traffic until he or she can proceed with reasonable safety.”
In such cases, the at-fault driver can be held liable for the victim’s wrongful death. If the driver was on the job at the time of the accident, his or her employer can also be held liable. Families of deceased victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income, pain and suffering and loss of love, care and companionship. An experienced Santa Ana motorcycle accident lawyer will be able to help victims and their families seek compensation for their tremendous losses.
Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2020/06/14/motorcyclist-dies-in-santa-ana-crash-2/