California Injury Blog
Three people were injured in a Long Beach car accident after a Ford Expedition SUV carrying members of a high school soccer team collided with another vehicle in the downtown area. According to a news report in The Press-Telegram, the injury collision occurred at the intersection of Magnolia Avenue and Broadway, the morning of December 27, 2011. Police say the Ford SUV heading east on Broadway and a Ford Focus traveling north on Magnolia collided. The Expedition flipped over and landed upside down. Two of the SUV’s passengers suffered non-life-threatening injuries as did the driver of the Ford Focus. All three victims were taken to area hospitals. The cause of the accident is under investigation as both drivers claim to have had the green light.
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 2009 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 28 fatalities and 1,629 injuries involving car accidents in Long Beach. Also, during the same year, 554 people died and 50,817 were injured in Los Angeles County car accidents.
Possible Red Light Violation
Based on this news report, it appears that one of the drivers ran a red light at the intersection, although both drivers claim to have had the green light. I trust officials are looking a various evidence and talking to witnesses in order to determine which one of the vehicles ran the red light.
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 this case, if the driver of the Ford SUV was at fault, then, he or she can be held liable for the injuries caused. On the other hand, if the driver of the Ford Focus caused the accident, then, he or she can be held financially responsible for the resulting injuries and damages. Injured victims in such cases can seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of wages, cost of hospitalization, physical therapy, and other related damages. Victims would be well advised to contact an experienced Los Angeles personal injury lawyer, who will stay abreast of the official investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected.