California Injury Blog
A man was arrested after a series of car accidents in Santa Ana, which ended with four people injured the morning of July 11. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the incident began at the intersection of First and Fairview streets when a Nissan Cube and a Honda sedan both ran a red light possibly triggered by road rage. Both vehicles struck a truck, which was thrown about 60 to 80 feet. Then the Honda veered and struck a bicyclist waiting on the corner, officials said.
The Cube hit a wall and David Brihn, 41, of Santa Ana, got out and ran to a nearby business. Brihn was arrested after been Tased by police officials. He was booked on suspicion of felony DUI, felony hit and run and resisting arrest. Investigators are also looking into adding charges of battery and kidnapping. Two people in the Honda, the bicyclist and the driver of the truck were hospitalized as trauma patients. Officials say they are all expected to survive.
Accidents Involving Road Rage
Today, road rage is believed to be one of the leading causes of car accidents in the United States. Recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration shows that 94 percent of all traffic accidents are caused by driver error. Of those accidents 33 percent could be linked to behaviors that could be characterized as road rage such as illegal maneuvering or misjudging the intent of the other driver. AAA, which did a study over seven years, found that more than 218 deaths and 12,500 injuries each year could be tied to road rage accidents. The numbers have been increasing steadily by about 7 percent a year.
Justice for Victims
If you are the victim of road rage, please remember that you do have legal rights. As with this particular case in Santa Ana, perpetrators could face criminal charges depending on the nature and circumstances of the incident. However, in addition to that, they can also be held financially responsible for the injuries and damages they cause, including those to innocent bystanders.
Injured victims can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, permanent injuries, pain and suffering and emotional distress. Victims would also be well advised to contact an experienced Orange County personal injury lawyer who will remain on their side, fight for their rights and help them secure maximum compensation for their tremendous losses.
Source: https://www.ocregister.com/2018/07/11/1-arrested-4-injured-with-traumatic-injuries-after-multi-car-crash-in-santa-ana/