Making a simple mistake behind the wheel can have devastating effects. Some San Diego drivers cause accidents because they are texting or talking on the phone. Speeding also is often a factor that causes fatal automobile accidents. A motorist may simply want to save a little bit of time, but the consequences can be tragic, as one recent incident illustrates.
A U.S. Forest Service firefighter left work and headed home one day last year, driving along Buckman Springs Road. A 22-year-old woman was speeding in the oncoming lane, going more than 70 miles per hour. She lost control of her vehicle and collided head-on with the firefighter’s motorcycle. As a result of the incident, the 37-year-old man died. His girlfriend has started a collection for a roadside memorial sign in the hopes of reminding people how devastating reckless driving can be, and his mother has been urging people to avoid speeding while behind the wheel.
A San Diego judge ruled that the woman will have to stand trial, facing a charge of gross vehicular manslaughter. A conviction of such a crime carries with it up to six years in prison. The firefighter’s mother has said she plans to file a lawsuit against the young woman, citing that she was negligent in the accident.
A wrongful death lawsuit can help a victim’s family or estate recover costs for damages such as pain and suffering. People who experience the loss of a loved one as a result of someone else’s negligence should contact an attorney who can put together a compelling suit.
Source: NBC San Diego, “Driver to Stand Trial in Crash That Killed Firefighter,” Monica Garske, March 22, 2014
