Residents in Orange County unfortunately encounter automobile accidents rather frequently. Whether it is a minor fender-bender during rush hour traffic or a severe crash caused by a negligent driver, it is important that motorists pass accident sites with much caution. In some cases, travelers might encounter vehicles pulled off to the side of the road because they have car trouble. Even though this is not an accident site, it is still critical to use caution. The failure to do so could result in a serious and unexpected collision.
This is what happened recently when a California Highway patrol officer was assisting a motorist whose vehicle was disabled on the side of the road. The disabled vehicle was on the side of the road on Orange Freeway going southbound. When the officer stopped to assist the motorist, another vehicle rear-ended his patrol car. Police said the officer suffered minor or moderate injuries.
This collision happened around 10:45 p.m. just south of Lincoln Avenue. A Honda going roughly 65 mph struck the patrol car. Reports indicate that the driver of the Honda suffered serious injuries. Both were transported to the hospital for medical treatment.
Upon further investigation, authorities suspected that the driver of the Honda was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the crash. The 39-year-old woman was on suspicion of a DUI; however, investigation of this drunk driving accident is still ongoing.
When a drunk driver causes a crash, he or she could be help liable for the injuries and damages caused. A personal injury claim could help a victim recover compensation, helping them cover expenses such as medical bills, lost wages and other related damages.
Source: Losangeles.cbslocal.com, “Woman Suffers ‘Major’ Injuries In Apparently Drunken Crash Into CHP Patrol Car,” Jan. 31, 2017