According to the California Highway Patrol, on Monday, March 9, a head-on collision resulted in the death of both drivers. Witnesses alleged that a 2001 Lexus sedan attempted to pass a long line of traffic in a no-passing zone when it struck a Ford Ranger pickup truck.
The incident occurred in Sonoma County, east of the Martinelli Winery. The Lexus was westbound on River Road when it allegedly crossed the double yellow line, driving out into oncoming traffic in the eastbound lane. The vehicle was allegedly traveling at a high rate of speed as it approached the Ford. Reportedly, both vehicles attempted to swerve away from the other; however, this failed to prevent the head-on car accident.
The pickup was driven by a 58-year-old male. The crash resulted in major front-end damage his vehicle, which ended up in a driveway. The other vehicle involved in the incident ended up on the right shoulder and caught on fire. Due to severe burns, the other driver was not promptly identified. Both were pronounced dead at the scene. River Road was closed for an estimated three hours due to the incident.
In a case where a fatal accident is the result of illegal action on the part of the driver, such as reckless driving, victims to consider filing a wrongful death suit. Through that action, the family may be able to hold the at-fault party responsible for damages that the family has sustained because of the accident. This may include final expenses or the loss of a victim’s financial support. A lawyer who is familiar with personal injury cases could provide some support to a family during the process of seeking compensation.
Source: KTVU, PREVIOUSLY POSTED ARTICLE: “Two dead in head-on collision in Sonoma County,” March 9, 2015