(La Quinta, CA) A driver suffered critical injuries, as well as two others in a Washington Street collision Tuesday evening after a bus and a vehicle collided in La Quinta.
On Tuesday, September 30, at about 6:20 p.m., Riverside County deputies responded to a crash at Washington Street and Eisenhower Drive, near Avenue 48. According to Lt. Deirdre Vickers, the crash involved a bus carrying multiple passengers and a private vehicle.
Emergency crews rushed to the scene and began rescue efforts. Paramedics transported the bus driver and one passenger to a nearby hospital, where both were listed in stable condition. The driver of the vehicle, however, required extrication and was airlifted to a trauma center with critical injuries.
Authorities confirmed there were four additional passengers inside the bus, though it remains unclear if they were hurt. The Washington Street collision is under active investigation as officers work to determine what caused the crash.
Legal Perspective on the Washington Street Collision
This case highlights several important legal questions under California traffic law. When buses and passenger vehicles collide, investigators must examine the duties of both drivers.
First, Vehicle Code 22107 states that no driver may turn or change lanes until it is safe to do so. If either driver made an unsafe movement before impact, that decision could create liability. Next, investigators will review speed. Vehicle Code 22350 requires drivers to operate at a speed that is reasonable for conditions. Even if both drivers obeyed the posted limit, traveling too fast through a busy intersection can still count as negligence.
Because a bus is involved, passenger safety is also critical. Vehicle Code 21702 limits the hours a bus operator may drive within a 24-hour period. Fatigue can cause slow reaction times, and if this becomes a factor, liability may extend to the bus company.
Guidance for the Family
For the injured driver and their loved ones, this situation is overwhelming. They may have the right to pursue a personal injury claim, which could cover hospital bills, lost wages, rehabilitation, and pain and suffering. The bus passengers also may have legal rights if they sustained injuries. Claims against a bus company can involve larger insurance policies, which may help cover medical costs and long-term damages.
Families should act quickly to protect their interests. Preserving accident reports, witness statements, and possible surveillance video will be essential. Consulting with an attorney can help clarify whether the bus driver, the vehicle driver, or both share responsibility. The Washington Street collision serves as a reminder of how quickly lives can change on California’s roadways, and why legal support can help families find stability in the aftermath.
We at Accident News Now offer our encouragement and support. We know this is a confusing time as you deal with the uncertainties resulting from this terrible incident. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
