A multi-vehicle accident caused delays on southbound Interstate 5 in Woodland on a recent Thursday afternoon. The aftermath of this fatal crash might lead to a personal injury and a wrongful death claim. Although California Highway Patrol officers say drug or alcohol impairment was suspected on the part of the driver who crashed into the other vehicles.
According to a crash report prepared by CHP in Woodland, the accident occurred shortly before 4 p.m. where two sedans and an SUV were stationary in the far-left southbound lanes of Interstate 5. The reason for the stopped vehicles is unknown. Reportedly, a 36-year-old man from Olivehurst was headed in the same direction in a pickup truck. CHP says this driver failed to slow down, move over to another lane or stop as he approached the three stopped vehicles.
Officers say he smashed into the rear of the SUV, which was behind the two sedans, and the force of the impact caused a chain reaction that involved all three vehicles. The 58-year-old driver of the SUV that was rear-ended did not survive the crash. The second car’s driver suffered moderate injuries, and the driver of the sedan that was in front allegedly fled the scene. This driver was later located at the airport, and he was arrested for fleeing the scene and suspected DUI.
Multi-vehicle car accidents on California roadways often result in extensive investigations to determine fault. Injured victims and surviving family members of deceased victims can typically pursue financial relief by filing personal injury and wrongful death lawsuits in a civil court. An experienced personal injury attorney can help to establish negligence — which is the basis for such lawsuits. When such claims are presented successfully, monetary judgments might be entered to cover documented claims for economic and noneconomic damages.