Los Angeles, CA (May 17, 2023) On Wednesday night, a man and a woman were swiftly taken to the hospital following an incident where the SUV they were in reportedly veered off the 101 Freeway overpass and descended onto Figueroa Street in downtown Los Angeles.
The Los Angeles Police Department received reports about the occurrence near the intersection of Sunset Boulevard and Figueroa Street, just before 8:30 p.m.
Specifics regarding the cause of the accident are limited, but an independent news agency states that the Ford Expedition went off the 101 Freeway overpass, plummeting approximately 50 feet to Figueroa Street below and colliding with a wall.
A video capturing the incident reveals extensive damage to the rear top of the Ford SUV, which is almost entirely flattened, while the front end of the vehicle is also severely crushed. Henry Rivera, who happened to be on his regular evening walk with his dog, witnessed the crash and rushed to assist before emergency responders arrived.
“I saw the Expedition soar off the top of the embankment, fly through the air, and crash into the wall,” he informed the news agency. Paramedics from the Los Angeles Fire Department arrived at the scene and transported both occupants of the vehicle to the hospital with undisclosed injuries.
Figueroa Street near Sunset Boulevard was temporarily closed as the California Highway Patrol conducted an investigation and crews worked to clear the area.
Liability in Los Angeles Car Accidents
Car accidents can result in serious injuries and fatalities, despite improved safety measures in cars. According to the CDC, over 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes in the US. There are many factors that can contribute to a car accident, such as speeding, distracted driving, inclement weather, dangerous turns, and poorly designed roadways. All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care to prevent accidents, especially commercial drivers who work for the city.
California Vehicle Code 21801 states that the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way to oncoming traffic close enough to pose a hazard. If a negligent driver works for a city, that city may be liable in the event of an accident. Employers are generally responsible for the negligent actions of their employees within the scope of their job duties.
After a car accident, it is essential to preserve evidence properly, such as taking photos of the accident site, seeking surveillance footage, preserving medical records, interviewing eyewitnesses, and conducting a thorough independent investigation. The family of a victim who died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. A car accident attorney can help accident victims understand their legal options and pursue compensation for lost wages, medical bills, and funeral expenses.
Investigating the 101 Freeway Car Accident
Accident News Now, If you need more information about a car accident in Los Angeles, our team of personal injury lawyers is here to help. We are committed to ensuring that accident victims are aware of their rights, and negligent drivers are held accountable for their actions. Whether you have legal questions or need an independent investigation into an accident, we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.
