A devastating single-vehicle accident in Dana Point, California, claimed the life of a high school student, Rebecca Cespedes, and left five of her classmates injured on Tuesday, May 6, 2025. The crash occurred just before noon on Dana Point Harbor Drive when a pickup truck carrying six juveniles slammed into a tree, according to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.
Six students from Dana Hills High School were in the truck when the crash took place. Authorities say the driver, 16-year-old Rebecca Cespedes, was pronounced dead at the scene. Two boys and a girl sustained critical injuries and were transported to local hospitals. Two other passengers suffered minor injuries.
It is not yet known whether speed, alcohol, or drugs played a role in the accident, and the incident remains under investigation. A roadside memorial with flowers and candles now marks the site, and school officials have brought in counseling support and therapy dogs to help students cope with the tragedy.
If you or your loved ones were affected by a serious crash, you have the right to understand your legal options. Contact Singleton Schreiber today to learn more.
Understanding the Causes and Consequences of Single-Vehicle Accidents
Single-vehicle crashes can be just as catastrophic as multi-car collisions. They often result in serious injury or death and leave survivors and families with lasting physical, emotional, and financial burdens.
Common causes of single-vehicle accidents include:
- Loss of control due to excessive speed
- Distracted or drowsy driving
- Mechanical failure or tire blowouts
- Poor road conditions or hazards
- Driver inexperience, especially among teen drivers
Even in cases where no other vehicle is involved, outside factors like vehicle defects, road design, or insufficient signage may contribute to the crash. When such circumstances exist, injured passengers or their families may still have grounds for legal claims.
“This accident is heartbreaking, not only because a young life was cut short, but because it has left five families waiting at hospitals,” says attorney Brett Schreiber, partner of the Singleton Schreiber personal injury law firm. “In situations like this, we work closely with families to uncover what happened, determine if any external factors played a role, and help them find a path forward.”
Legal Options for Victims and Families
The surviving victims of this car crash may have legal recourse. California law allows injured parties in single-vehicle accidents to pursue compensation through:
- The driver’s auto insurance policy, which may provide coverage for passenger injuries
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage if the driver or vehicle was not adequately insured
- Product liability claims if a mechanical defect or tire failure contributed to the crash
- Claims against public entities for hazardous road conditions or inadequate signage, where applicable
Additionally, the family of the deceased driver may pursue wrongful death claims if evidence shows the crash resulted from a defect, roadway hazard, or other external negligence.
If your family has been affected by this tragic car accident, contact Singleton Schreiber today for compassionate legal assistance. Call us at (619) 771-3473 or email info@singletonschreiber.com to schedule a free consultation today.
