EL DORADO HILLS, (OCTOBER 13, 2023): 55-year-old Eric West has been identified as the victim of a fatal crash on Highway 50 in El Dorado on October 9th.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision occurred around 5:37 p.m. on Highway 50 near Bass Lake Road, when West’s 1999 Ford Expedition collided with a 1990 Mallard Sprinter motorhome under unclear circumstances.
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The force of the impact caused both vehicles to overturn.
The collision ignited a grass fire that spread up the hill until the arrival of firefighters, who contained the flames.
Unfortunately, West did not survive the accident.
Two occupants of the motorhome, 54-year-old driver Clifton Hiler and 30-year-old Anthony West, sustained injuries in the collision. They were transported to UC Davis Medical Center, where their current condition remains unknown.
Authorities are still unsure as to what caused this collision. They continue to investigate this accident that resulted in the death of Eric West in El Dorado.
Liability In El Dorado Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating the Eric West’s Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our condolences to the family of Eric West, and our well wishes to those who were injured in this accident. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a El Dorado car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need assistance after an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.
