4 injured in restricted area car crash
On Aug. 2, it was reported that four men were injured in a single-vehicle accident in California. According to the San Diego police, the accident took place near the Summit Avenue and Summit Crest Drive intersection in Santee Lakes at around 7:30 p.m.
A Ford Explorer was driving in a restricted area when it suddenly went off a steep embankment, causing the vehicle to roll several times. Following the accident, one of the vehicle’s occupants reportedly called for help using a cellphone. The occupants were then airlifted by a helicopter and were transported to Woodglen Vista Park. From there, they were taken by ambulance to a nearby hospital. One person was directly flown to a hospital after suffering injuries that were described as being critical.
It was believed that the driver of the Ford was operating the vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. In addition to being charged with DUI, the four men may also be cited for driving around a restricted area.
When a person sits behind the wheel of a car, they are responsible for driving safely. If a drunk driver is found to be liable for any injuries, even if the injured person was an occupant of the same vehicle, that person may still have the ability to file a personal injury claim against the liable driver. Most of these cases are settled out of court after negotiations. An attorney may negotiate for a certain amount of compensation that covers the cost of medical care, rehabilitation and lost income. If the accused person refuses to settle, the attorney may represent the injured person in court.
Source: NBC San Diego, “Four Seriously Injured in Off-Roading Crash Near Santee Lakes, Driver Arrested on Suspicion of DUI“, Samantha Tatro and Omari Fleming, Aug. 2, 2015