Three people were injured in a street intersection car collision in Garden Grove involving two vehicles. According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the injury crash occurred at the intersection of West Street and Orangewood Avenue, the morning of July 12, 2012. Police say, the driver of a Suzuki Aerio was heading west on Orangewood Avenue and entered the intersection on a red light.
The Suzuki collided with a Mitsubishi Lancer that was traveling north on West Street. The impact of the collision caused the Lancer to roll over. A man and a woman in the Lancer were transported to a trauma center as was a boy in the vehicle, who officials say, was not injured, but “traumatized by the incident.” A female passenger in the Suzuki was also transported to an area hospital. The investigation is ongoing.
My heart goes out to the injured victims of this car crash. I wish them the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Car Accident Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 14 fatalities and 647 injuries involving Garden Grove car accidents in 2009. During the same year, 141 people died and 13,373 were injured due to Orange County car crashes.
Red Light Violation
Based on this news account, it appears that one of the drivers ran a red light at the intersection. 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 such cases, the at-fault motorist can be held liable for the resulting injuries and damages. Injured victims can seek compensation from the at-fault driver and his or her insurance company for medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation and other related damages. Car accident victims would be well advised to contact an experienced Garden Grove personal injury attorney, who will stay on top of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.