Wrong-way driver causes fatal accident

A recent early-morning crash in Northern California claimed the lives of four family members and seriously injured one of their children. The crash happened in Nevada County and was reportedly caused by a motorist driving the wrong direction on Interstate 80. Now, the surviving family members and those injured are left to pick up the pieces of the terrible tragedy and come to grips with what has occurred. They also reserve the right to pursue wrongful death and personal injury claims against the alleged wrong-way driver who caused the accident.

Family going on vacation

According to the report, a family of five were going to the Grand Canyon for vacation. Sometime after 5:00 a.m. the morning of Wednesday, November 24, a witness noticed a wrong-way driver on the interstate and called 911. The accident apparently happened moments later and involved three vehicles.
The victims of the accident were described as a man and his wife, both 29 years old, as well as their 5-year-old son and 9-year-old daughter. Their other son, 4, was secured in his car seat and survived with extensive injuries. He was airlifted to a local hospital for treatment, and doctors expect a full recovery. Extended family members are reportedly going to adopt the boy since both his parents were killed. The alleged wrong-way driver and the driver of the third vehicle involved in the crash both suffered injuries. Authorities suspect the at-fault driver was impaired by alcohol.

Legal recourse for the victims

Should authorities confirm the at-fault driver was indeed intoxicated behind the wheel and bring charges against him, that evidence can be used in civil claims brought against the surviving family members of the deceased as well as the other driver injured in the crash. Only after a strong showing of negligence on the part of the alleged at-fault driver will the court adjudicate the claims and award damages. Those adversely affected by this senseless tragedy will want to work with an experienced personal injury attorney to help them obtain much-needed compensation for their losses and suffering.