Angel Fernandez, 19, of Orange, was fatally injured in an Orange County car accident after the vehicle he was driving was struck by another car at a street intersection. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the car crash occurred at the intersection of Chapman Avenue and Jamboree Road in Orange, the night of May 3, 2012. Officials say a gray Honda Civic was traveling north on Jamboree when it collided with a Toyota Corolla that was traveling west on Chapman.
Fernandez, the driver of the Corolla, was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Civic was transported to an area hospital with minor injuries. Officials determined that one of the drivers ran a red light, but it is not known if speed or alcohol played a part. Anyone with information is asked to contact Orange police at 714-744-7460.
My heartfelt thoughts and prayers go out to the family and friends of Angel Fernandez who are mourning their loved one’s tragic and untimely loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Car Accident Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2009 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), Orange car accidents caused six fatalities and injured 725 people. In Orange County as a whole, 141 people died and 13,373 were injured as a result of car accidents, during the same year.
Possible Red Light Violation
Based on the news report, one of the drivers here may have run a red light at the intersection. However, at this point it is not clear who ran a red light or whether speed or alcohol were factors. California Vehicle Code Section 21453 (a) states: “A driver facing a circular red signal shall stop at the limit line before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if none, then before entering the intersection, and shall remain stopped until an indication to proceed is shown.”
Fault and Liability
In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, the family of a deceased victim can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for lost future income and benefits, loss of love and companionship, medical expenses, funeral costs, and other related damages. If the driver of the Honda is determined to have been at fault, then, he or she could be held liable for Fernandez’s wrongful death. Victims’ families would be well advised to contact an experienced Orange County personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.