English
Spanish
SAN JACINTO, CA (August 27, 2023) -A 30-year-old Corona resident died, and seven others were hospitalized Sunday night, Aug. 27, when the car he was driving drifted into oncoming traffic on Gilman Springs Road in San Jacinto and struck a minivan, the California Highway Patrol said.
The two vehicles impacted head-on.
The deadly collision occurred around 9:16 p.m. on August 27th, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The Corona man was driving a 2011 Kia Forte west on Gilman Springs when he crossed over two sets of double yellow lines and hit a 2016 Nissan Quest being driven by a 48-year-old woman and 4 other passengers.
Alcohol or drugs are not believed to be factors in the collision, said Officer Jason Montez, who added that investigators do not know why he veered into oncoming traffic. He was pronounced dead at the scene. His name has not been announced.
The man’s passenger, a 36-year-old Corona woman, was hospitalized with major injuries.
A 13-year-old girl in the Nissan suffered major injuries, Officers said.
Others had minor injuries: the driver, a 9-year-old girl, an 11-year-old boy, a 17-year-old girl and an 18-year-old girl, all from San Jacinto.
All apparently were wearing seat belts, and the minivan was equipped for that many passengers, Montez said.
The segment of Gilman Springs where the crash occurred has two lanes. However, there are turnouts for truck traffic that frequents the area, providing additional maneuvering space. There is no divider between north- and southbound traffic, but there are double yellow lines, rumble strips and traffic calmers that alert motorists when they’re crossing them.
“That road is extremely curvy and narrow and if you’re not careful, you can lose control easily,” Montez said, “so you have to make sure you are abiding by the speed limits and are not distracted.”
The CHP is working to determine the cause of the crash and the investigation into the accident is currently ongoing.
Steps to Take Immediately After an Accident
If you have been involved in an accident in California, here are the crucial steps to protect yourself and ensure you have the best chance of receiving the compensation you deserve:
1. Seek Medical Attention
The first and most important step is to seek medical attention. Even if you do not feel hurt right away, accidents can result in serious injuries that are not immediately apparent. Seeking medical attention will ensure you receive the treatment you need and create a record of your injuries that can be used as evidence in a personal injury lawsuit.
2. Document the Incident
Take photographs of the accident scene, including any hazards that may have caused it. If possible, obtain witness statements from anyone who saw the accident happen. This evidence will prove your case and help you receive your deserved compensation.
3. Report the Incident
If the accident occurred on someone else’s property, report the incident to the property owner or manager. Make sure to obtain a copy of any incident reports filed. This will create a paper trail you can use as evidence in your personal injury case.
4. Contact an Attorney
Working with an experienced personal injury attorney who understands California’s laws is essential when dealing with accidents. They will be able to guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected. When looking for an attorney, choose one with a proven track record of success in slip-and-fall cases.
5. Use External Sources as Support
If you need additional support for your case, consider using external sources such as government websites (.gov) or educational sources (.edu). These sources can provide additional information and evidence to support your claim, giving you a stronger case in court.
When to Consider a Lawsuit
Auto related accidents can be a devastating experience for anyone, often resulting in serious injuries and unexpected financial distress. Filing a lawsuit against a property owner can help you recover compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Still, it is important to consider some key factors before taking legal action.
The Seriousness of the Injury
The severity of the injury is a major factor in determining whether to file a lawsuit. If you sustained a serious injury, such as a broken bone or head injury, you should speak to a lawyer as soon as possible. A qualified attorney can help you explore your options and determine the best action.
Consultation with a Lawyer
Consult with a qualified attorney specializing in California’s personal injury law. An experienced attorney can assess your case, evaluate the facts, and provide guidance on the best course of action. They can help you determine if your case has merit and advise you on the likelihood of success and a settlement offer that covers both economic (medical expenses) and non-economic damages.
The Importance of Consulting with a Lawyer
An experienced lawyer can provide a wealth of knowledge and experience that can be invaluable when navigating complicated legal issues.
A lawyer can provide an objective evaluation of your case.
They will assess the facts and determine whether your injury is serious enough to warrant legal action. They will also review any evidence you have gathered, such as photos of the accident scene or witness statements, and advise you on how to proceed.
Your attorney can help you understand the legal process.
They will explain the complexities of California’s personal injury laws and guide you through the various stages of the lawsuit, such as settlement negotiations and court appearances. They will provide legal advice and, for most law firms, provide free consultation.
Your attorney will handle all aspects of your case.
From filing paperwork to negotiating with insurance companies, they will be your advocate, fighting for your rights and pursuing the fair settlement amount you deserve.
How to File a Lawsuit in California
Filing a auto related lawsuit in California can be a complex process, but with the help of an experienced attorney, you can navigate it successfully.
Here is a detailed list of the process of filing a slip and fall lawsuit in California:
1. Finding an experienced attorney
The first step in filing a lawsuit in California is finding an attorney who has experience with these types of cases. Look for an attorney specializing in personal injury law and familiar with California’s laws and regulations. The attorney will evaluate your case during your initial consultation and advise you on the best course of action.
2. Filing a complaint
Your attorney will file a court complaint if they think you have a valid case. The complaint will outline the details of your accident, your injuries, and the damages you seek. The defendant will then have a certain amount of time to respond to the complaint.
3. Discovery process
Both sides exchange information relevant to the case. This can include medical records, witness statements, and other evidence. Your attorney will use this information to build a strong case and negotiate a fall settlement on your behalf.
4. Trial process
The case will be trialed if a personal injury settlement cannot be reached. This involves selecting a jury, presenting evidence, and arguing your case before a judge. Your attorney will guide you through the trial process and work to ensure that you get the compensation you deserve.
5. Verdict
After both sides have presented their case, the jury will deliberate and reach a verdict. If the verdict is in your favor, you will be awarded damages to compensate for your injuries and any other losses you suffered from the accident.
It’s important to note that the statute of limitations for filing a slip and fall lawsuit in California is two years from the accident date. This means you must file your lawsuit within two years of the accident, or you may lose your right to seek compensation.
If You Were Injured in an Accident, Get the Compensation You Deserve
Auto related accidents can be life-altering events that significantly impact your physical, emotional, and financial well-being. If you are considering filing a lawsuit in California, it is important to consider the factors outlined above and consult with a qualified legal professional.
At Frantz Law Group, we have a team of experienced personal injury lawyers who can help you navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Contact us today to schedule a free case evaluation.