Kings County, CA (December 4, 2023) 37-year-old David Barajas and 63-year-old Steven Mahoney were both injured in a wrong-way collision on Highway 198 in Kings County. The California Highway Patrol said the collision occurred just before 2:00 a.m.
The multi-vehicle collision also left one person dead, according to the California Highway Patrol. The identity of this person is being withheld until family members have been notified. Officers reported that a Toyota Corolla was driving west in the eastbound lanes of Highway 198. At the same time, a Ford F-250 pickup truck was heading east. The two vehicles collided, head-on, and the pickup overturned. It then hit a Kia Soul that was also traveling east. As if this wasn’t enough, the Toyota then caught on fire, according to authorities.
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David Barajas was driving the Ford pickup. He was seriously injured in the crash and airlifted to a local hospital to receive treatment. Steven Mahoney was driving the Kia that was hit following the initial collision. He and the passenger in his pickup were both taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
The 24-year-old driver of the Toyota who was driving the wrong way, was pronounced dead at the scene by medical personnel.
In total, 5 people were injured in this wrong-way crash and 1 person died. Crews had to clean the scene which was littered with debris and a tow truck was called to remove at least one of the vehicles involved. Authorities are still investigating this accident to try and figure out why the Toyota was driving the wrong way.
Liability In Kings County 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 Kings County Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the man killed in this fatal collision. We also send well wishes to David Barajas and Steven Mahoney, who were injured in this crash. Any person who 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 Kings County 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) 945-4286 or visit our contact form here: Accident News Now.
