Pacoima, CA (August 11, 2023) 3 Los Angeles Police Officers were injured during a pursuit on Wednesday. The suspect had stolen a Los Angeles Department of Water and Power vehicle and proceeded to lead officers on a high speed chase.
Officers reported to a call about a involving assault with a deadly weapon around 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday evening. The suspect lead officer on a chase down southbound 5 freeway in the stolen LADWP vehicle. The driver was determined to ram into police cruisers as well as other vehicles.
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The driver exited the freeway and turned onto Colorado Boulevard where he rammed 2 police cars, according to KTLA Channel 5 News. The driver then turned on officers who were not in their vehicles. The officers shot at the driver as he sped toward them. News reports say the vehicle was covered in bullet holes and the front tires were missing. The man was eventually taken into custody.
3 police officers were injured in the collision. 2 were treated by paramedics at the scene and one was taken to a local hospital for treatment, but is said to be in stable condition.
Liability In Pacoima 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 Pacoima Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend well wishes to the injured officers. 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 Pacoima 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 (844) 966-0965.
