San Diego, CA (October 27, 2023) A driver was killed on the evening of Thursday, October 26th when he rear-ended a semi tractor trailer in the Otay Mesa neighborhood of San Diego. The San Diego Police Department was called to the scene shortly after 6:30 p.m.
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It all started on the 6900 block of Otay Mesa when a 37-year-old man, driving a semi tractor trailer, stopped at a red light at the intersection of Otay Mesa and Cactus Road. A 2016 Chevy Malibu pulled up behind him and stropped, waiting. When the light turned green, the semi began moving forward. The driver of the Malibu, for reasons unknown, hit the gas and slammed into the back of the semi tractor trailer. The trailer went through the Malibu’s windshield and killed the driver, according to Officer Robert Heims of the San Diego Police Department.
Emergency crews arrived at the scene and pronounced the driver dead at the scene. The semi driver was uninjured in this collision. A tow truck was called to remove the Malibu from the scene and the San Diego Police Department’s Traffic Division is investigating this accident to determine what exactly happened on Otay Mesa in San Diego.
Liability In San Diego Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A San Diego Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the person killed in this accident. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a San Diego car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.
