People under stress often make poor decisions. A recent car accident in the North Hills section of Los Angeles shows how decision-making under stress can compound a dangerous situation and lead to tragic consequences. A driver’s decision to flee from the scene of a minor collision appears to have resulted in a far more serious accident in which one person was killed and eight others injured.
The accident investigation is still underway, but police were able to offer a tentative description of the sequence of events. The driver of a Toyota 4Runner made an illegal u-turn and collided with a second vehicle. The driver of the Toyota 4Runner attempted to flee the scene and drove away at a high rate of speed westbound on Parthenia. The 4Runner it hit a minivan traveling north on Haskell. Seven people were in the minivan, which rolled over several times before coming to rest.
A male passenger in the minivan died from his injuries after being taken to a nearby hospital. Four children in the minivan suffered critical injuries. The driver of the 4Runner suffered unknown internal injuries and a broken arm. Police said that the driver of the 4Runner will probably face felony charges in connection with the accident.
This incident shows how a relatively minor fender-bender was transformed into a fatal accident by a driver’s rash decision to leave the scene. Anyone who has been injured or lost a loved one in an accident caused by another driver’s poor decisions may wish to consult an attorney who specializes in auto accident cases. Such a consultation can provide helpful advice on legal remedies and the likelihood of recovering damages for medical expenses, lost income and pain and suffering.
Source: ABC7 News, “North Hills Rollover Crash Leaves 1 Dead, 8 Injured,” Amy Powell, April 17, 2016