A 51-year-old male passenger of a taxi was fatally injured in an accident on a transition road on the morning of March 16. The incident took place in Fairfield near the interchange of Interstate 680 and Interstate 80, and reports have indicated that the driver and one other passenger suffered injuries in the crash.
According to the California Highway Patrol, a northbound 2006 Ford Crown Victoria overturned on Central way after the driver lost control of the vehicle. Reports indicated that the driver of the Ford had been driving around 60 or 65 mph while heading toward the eastbound lanes of I-80 when the accident occurred. The vehicle was said to have left the roadway on the right side of the road and became airborne. The driver of the Ford sustained minor injuries from the impact, said reports. However, two passengers occupied the rear seat of the vehicle, and a man who was seated behind the driver sustained major injuries and was transported to NorthBay Medical Center for treatment. The other passenger was also transported to the hospital and was pronounced. According to reports, the driver and both passengers had been wearing seat belts at the time of the accident.
Many car accidents that result in a victim’s death may be investigated to discern the cause of the crash. The results of such inquiries may indicate some form of negligence. For example, any failure to exercise reasonable care when driving, such as driving and texting or ignoring posted speed limits, could be considered negligent, and the driver may be liable for the damages that such behavior caused.
In addition to emotional difficulties associated with a person’s death, the victim’s family could face unexpected financial costs, which could be exacerbated if the victim directly contributed to the family’s finances. A lawyer may be able to determine if a wrongful death claim could help a family recover some of the damages incurred.
Source: Suisun City Patch, “Update on fatal taxi crash on I-80/I-680 freeways,” Susan C. Schena, March 16, 2015