David Slavitt, 32, suffered major injuries in an Antelope Valley car accident after he crashed into a large truck in Llano April 22. According to a KTLA news report, the incident occurred a the intersection of 165th Street East at Avenue T when they say Slavitt was video blogging on his YouTube account where he has more than 1,500 subscribers. The Claremont resident was driving his Honda Fit west on Avenue T approaching 165th Street East as the truck driver was heading north on 165th Street.
As he was vlogging, Slavitt failed to yield at a stop sign and crossed directly into the truck’s path. In the livestream, Slavitt can be seen abruptly stopping his livestream and screaming in terror. The truck driver reportedly tried to swerve to avoid the collision, but ended up hitting the driver’s side door. Slavitt was airlifted to an area hospital with blunt force trauma. CHP officials are pointing to this incident as an example that highlights the dangers of distracted driving. Officers also say Slavitt is extremely fortunate that this was not a fatal incident or did not result in major injuries to others.
Distracted Driving Crashes
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2016 alone, 3,450 people were killed and 391,000 were injured in motor vehicle crashes involving distracted drivers in 2015. During daylight hours, approximately 481,000 drivers are using cell phones while driving. That creates enormous potential for deaths and injuries on U.S. roads. Teens were the largest age group reported as distracted at the time of fatal crashes. We’ve seen several incidents where livestreaming has played a role in many California crashes.
Avoid Driving While Distracted
These types of incidents are wakeup calls for those who believe this cannot happen to them. There are several steps we can all take to prevent distracted driving crashes. The most important thing to do is to put away your cell phone and other electronics when you drive. Livestreaming, video blogging, taking photos or posting on social media should not even be attempted while driving. Keep your hands free, eyes on the road and attention firmly on the roadway.
If you drive while distracted and cause a crash, you can also be held financially responsible for the injuries, damages and losses you cause. Injured victims of distracted driving can seek compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, rehabilitation, permanent injuries and pain and suffering. An experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney can help injured victims better understand their legal rights and options.
Source: http://ktla.com/2018/04/27/man-hospitalized-after-livestreaming-moment-he-crashed-into-big-rig-in-llano-chp-investigating-districted-driving/