A fatal car accident in Santa Ana last Friday left the driver seriously injured while his passenger lost his life. The passenger from Westminster was unfortunately pronounced dead at the scene while the driver who is suspected of driving under the influence was also taken to the hospital with serious injuries. The family of the passenger may have a wrongful death claim under California law, although witnesses believe the car may have been involved in a street race. According to police the car involved was racing a black or dark-blue Dodge Charger with green under-body lights.
These cases can be quite legally complex and the insurance company will undoubtedly attempt to try to lay off part or all of the liability onto the alleged criminal actions of the driver. My name is Rivers Morrell and after more than 40 years of experience in car accidents and wrongful death cases I can tell you the passenger almost always has a claim. It is important for the family of the victim in this case to seek the advice of a seasoned experienced wrongful death attorney. We would stand up for their family and for their 21 year old family member. In our work, we are able to take the burden of communicating with the Court, Police and insurance companies related to the case. We manage all aspects of the wrongful death action so that the family may console one another, and support each other through this difficult time.
If you have lost a brother, son, parent or immediate family member I invite you to review the recommendations of our clients and call me personally for a free consultation at (949)305-1400. It is important to make contact with any witnesses while their memories are still fresh. There is a statute of limitations on wrongful death cases in California, and the family of this fatal car accident in Santa Ana should take every step to preserve and protect their interests. Our thoughts go out to all lost or injured in area accidents.