The dangers of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol, as well as distracted driving, are well-known. Public service announcements frequently reinforce the potential consequences of such negligent actions. However, the dangers of driving while tired are often overlooked. Too many fatal car accidents in California are caused by a fatigued driver. For example, police believe that the driver in an accident that resulted in two fatalities fell asleep.
Reports indicate that the accident happened during the early morning hours of a day in early November. The driver of a car containing two passengers is believed to have fallen asleep at the wheel, causing the vehicle to strike a tree. The two passengers died as a result of the injuries they suffered. The driver suffered serious injuries that required hospitalization.
Police say that the driver’s life was likely spared as a result of the location where the car collided with the tree and the use of a safety belt and air bags. While police suspect that the driver was speeding at the time of the accident, they claim that there is no indication at this time that drugs are alcohol were involved. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
While the emotional implications of such a tragic, unexpected loss are clear, many California families also suffer financially as well. Funeral costs, for example, are often overwhelming for grieving families. For many, the expenses created by car accidents add additional stress to an already difficult time. Fortunately, there are options for legal recourse. An experienced personal injury attorney can help grieving families identify all responsible parties and take appropriate action.
Source: abc7news.com, “CHP investigating crash that killed 2 teenage girls, seriously injured one in Martinez“, Cornell Barnard, Nov. 1, 2015