Santa Rosa, CA (December 16, 2023) 21-year-old Logan Scroggins and 23-year-old Elisa Scroggins, siblings, lost their lives on State Route 116 in Santa Rosa on December 9th, the California Highway Patrol said. The accident happened just after midnight at Sonoma Avenue, not far from Graton in the Santa Rosa area.
Two others were injured in this fatal head-on collision, as well, according to authorities. A Mitsubishi 3000 GT and a Toyota 4 Runner SUV were involved in the accident. The Mitsubishi, driven by Logan Scroggins, was traveling east on Highway 116 when he drifted into oncoming traffic. At the same time, the Toyota was heading west and the two vehicles collided, head-on.
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Emergency personnel arrived at the scene and found 3 people in the Mitsubishi. Logan and Elisa were both killed in the collision and, sadly, pronounced dead at the scene. The passenger in the backseat was alive but sustained severe injuries in the accident. Paramedics at the scene rushed him to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital via ambulance to receive treatment for his injuries.
The driver of the Toyota was the only occupant of the vehicle and he also survived. He sustained serious injuries and was also taken to Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital.
Police officers are still uncertain as to what exactly happened on State Route 116 on December 9th and continue to investigate this accident. They hope to determine what caused the Mitsubishi to cross into oncoming traffic that day. Crews had to clean debris and glass from the roadway and tow trucks were called to remove the damaged vehicles from the scene.
Liability In Santa Rosa 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 A Santa Rosa Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of Logan Scroggins and Elisa Scroggins. 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 Santa Rosa 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 negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at 866-883-4318.
