405 Freeway Multi-Car Crash in Westwood, Kills 1

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Emergency response team respond to early morning car crash

A man was killed in a multiple vehicle crash on the 405 Freeway in the Westwood area of Los Angeles on Monday morning May 22, 2023.

The crash reportedly took place on the southbound 405 Freeway at Sunset Boulevard at 3:36 AM according to California Highway Patrol (CHP). My News LA reported that four vehicles were involved in the crash, seen by witnesses, as well as “a body in the middle of the freeway.” The man, a pedestrian, was unfortunately pronounced dead at the scene and CHP issued a SigAlert at about 4 AM that enforced the shutdown of all southbound lanes north of Sunset Boulevard. The Sunset Boulevard on-ramp to the southbound 405 Freeway was shut down by LAPD officers and drivers were diverted off the freeway at Skirball Center Drive.

A video provided by KTLA 5 of the crash scene depicted car parts and debris scattered along the freeway as well as traffic backups extending into the Sepulveda Pass. The presence of the pedestrian at the scene of incident is still under investigation, the cause of the multi-car collision has not yet been reported, and no other injuries have been announced.

“A crash like this causes injuries, serious property damage and a horrible loss of life, and millions of people in Los Angeles were impacted by the freeway closure,” said Jerry Singleton injury attorney at Singleton Schreiber. “My thoughts are with the victims of the collision and the family of the person we lost to this tragic crash.”

Singleton Schreiber Los Angeles car accident attorneys can be reached at 213-816-0307 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.

Fatal 405 Freeway Multi-Car Accidents

The 405 Freeway, one of the busiest and most vital freeways in Los Angeles County, has gained a reputation for its frequent multi-car crashes, which often result in chaos, congestion, and significant injury. In this article, we delve into the nature of these multi-car crashes, their causes, and the potential measures that can be taken to mitigate the dangers on the 405 Freeway.

The 405 Freeway, stretching across Southern California, serves as a major transportation lifeline for thousands of commuters and travelers every day. Unfortunately, it has also become filled with multi-car crashes due to the high volume of vehicles, complex interchanges, and heavy traffic congestion. These crashes, involving three or more vehicles, often lead to devastating consequences, including severe injuries, loss of life, and substantial property damage.

Several factors contribute to multi-car crashes on the 405 Freeway. Some of the prominent causes include:

Distracted Driving: The use of electronic devices, such as smartphones, along with other distractions like eating or interacting with passengers, diverts the drivers’ attention from the road, increasing the likelihood of collisions.
Speeding: The urge to keep up with fast-moving traffic or reach a destination quickly can lead to speeding, reducing the time available for drivers to react to sudden changes in traffic conditions.
Tailgating: Following other vehicles too closely limits the necessary stopping distance, amplifying the risk of chain-reaction collisions when sudden braking is needed.
Lane Changing and Merging: Frequent lane changing, improper merging, and failure to use turn signals can result in sideswipes, rear-end collisions, and the creation of unsafe conditions for other drivers.

The frequency of fatal multi-car crashes on the 405 Freeway is a grim reminder of the urgent need for enhanced safety measures. By addressing reckless driving, combating distractions, improving traffic flow management, upgrading infrastructure, and promoting driver education, we can work towards reducing the devastating toll of these accidents.

The legal complexities of multi-car accident cases can be difficult to manage and understand, it requires the expertise of a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer. Their experience in handling multi-car collision cases allows them to develop a strong legal strategy tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. They protect the rights of the victims and pursue a fair settlement or represent the victims in court if necessary.

“Everyday, we read about aggressive drivers, distracted drivers, drivers who are under the influence and others who put the lives of others at risk,” said Mr. Singleton. “We need law enforcement to hold these people accountable. The family of the victim, as well as those injured in the crash, also need to contact Los Angeles personal injury attorneys who can help them fight for justice.”

Singleton Schreiber Los Angeles car accident attorneys can be reached at 213-816-0307 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.

101 Crash Near Sunnyvale Leaves 3 Dead, 5 Injured

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The Fearless Advocate Team

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Emergency response team arrives at scene of crash to help victims

A chain-reaction crash on the 101 Freeway near Sunnyvale left three people dead and five more injured on Monday, May 22, 2023 just after midnight according to authorities.

According to the SF Examiner, a Ford pickup truck hit the center median while driving on the northbound 101, just south of Fair Oaks. This occurred after midnight on Monday according to California Highway Patrol Officer Ross Lee. The names of the victims have been released, two of the adult males have been identified as 24-year-old Paul Dennig Jr. and 28-year-old Tyler Rasay. The third victim has not yet been identified.

The pickup truck caused a chain reaction crash, with the driver losing control of the truck. Authorities said one vehicle collided with the truck, then a third vehicle struck another vehicle. Matters became deadly when drivers from three of the vehicles exited their vehicles and were standing near the crash scene. At that point, a fifth vehicle came and struck all three. One, remained on the northbound side and the other two were knocked over the center median wall into the southbound lanes. The individuals knocked into the southbound lanes were struck by a vehicle on that side. All the northbound and southbound lanes were shut down until 9 am Monday morning, and five other injured people were taken to the hospital.

The crash involved six vehicles in total. The CHP considered all three victims killed “pedestrians” since they’d gotten out of their vehicles when they were struck. They were all identified as adult men. The CHP also stated alcohol was not involved in the crash.

“These collisions were a ripple effect of the initial pickup truck collision, and so far we don’t know how this all happened,” said Sunnyvale pickup truck accident attorney Brett Schreiber. “Everyone involved, from the families of the deceased to the injured parties, deserve our thoughts and prayers.”

If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck accident, contact Singleton Schreiber at 415-635-0533 or email them at info@singletonschreiber.com.

Sunnyvale 101 Multi-Vehicle Crash

The Sunnyvale Freeway, a major artery connecting various regions, has unfortunately witnessed a concerning pattern of crashes over the past few years. These accidents, which occur with alarming frequency, have raised concerns among residents, commuters, and local authorities. The consequences of these crashes are not only limited to property damage but also pose a significant risk to human lives. Understanding the factors contributing to these accidents is crucial in devising effective measures to improve safety on the freeway.

One prominent factor contributing to the high rate of crashes on the Sunnyvale Freeway is heavy traffic congestion. The freeway serves as a vital transportation route for thousands of commuters each day, leading to overcrowding and traffic jams during peak hours. The dense traffic conditions increase the likelihood of collisions due to limited maneuverability and reduced reaction times. Additionally, frequent lane changes and sudden braking amplify the risk of accidents, especially when drivers fail to maintain safe distances between vehicles.

Another contributing factor to the crashes is driver distraction. With the proliferation of smartphones and other handheld devices, many drivers find themselves engaging in distracting activities while behind the wheel. Texting, talking on the phone, or using social media not only diverts attention from the road but also delays reaction times, increasing the likelihood of an accident. Public awareness campaigns emphasizing the importance of responsible driving and the dangers of distracted driving can play a crucial role in mitigating this issue.

Furthermore, reckless driving behaviors, such as speeding and aggressive maneuvers, are significant contributors to crashes on the Sunnyvale Freeway. Some drivers disregard speed limits, disregarding the potential consequences of their actions. Tailgating, weaving through traffic, and sudden lane changes put themselves and others at risk. Increased law enforcement presence and stricter penalties for traffic violations can act as deterrents to such behavior and promote safer driving habits.

Improper vehicle maintenance and road conditions also play a role in the frequency of crashes. Worn-out tires, faulty brakes, and inadequate lighting systems can compromise a driver’s ability to control their vehicle. Additionally, poorly maintained roads with potholes and uneven surfaces can lead to loss of control and accidents. Regular inspections of vehicles and timely repairs, as well as infrastructure improvements, are necessary to address these issues.

“There was a long, 8+ hour on-scene investigation by law enforcement,” Mr. Schreiber added. “Hopefully, they’ll discover whether there was a distracted driver, whether the roadways were damaged, whether law enforcement should have arrived at the crash sooner, or any other contributing factors to this accident. The injured individuals and the survivors of the men who unfortunately lost their lives are likely due some form of compensation.”

If you or someone you love has been injured in a truck accident, contact Singleton Schreiber at 415-635-0533 or email them at info@singletonschreiber.com.

Albuquerque Semi-Truck I-40 Crash Kills 64-Year-Old Woman

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The Fearless Advocate Team

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Semi truck altercation with crashed car on freeway

Interstate-40 in Albuquerque, New Mexico was closed May 21, 2023 due to a fatal collision involving a 64-year-old woman.

Two passenger vehicles and a semi-truck were involved in a crash on I-40 according to New Mexico State Police (NMSP). The crash occurred at 2 PM at mile marker 160. A 2019 Toyota was heading west on I-40 and began to slide due to “inclement weather” and the vehicle sideswiped a 2008 Ford. Consequently, the Ford began to spin counterclockwise when it was hit. While spinning, the Ford was then broadsided by the semi-truck. The Ford driver was identified as Flora Garcia, 64, of Farmington, who according to the Office of the Medical Investigator, died at the scene of incident.

NMSP reported that the drivers of the Toyota and semi-truck, both 48-year-old women, were not injured in the incident.

Big rig collisions in New Mexico have become more common as truck drivers use various interstate highways to transport goods across the country.

“This fatal incident involved multiple dangerous factors that resulted in the death of a 64-year-old woman,” said Brian Colón Albuquerque attorney at Singleton Schreiber. “It’s heartbreaking that these types of deadly crashes happen even when responsible drivers are doing all they can to avoid accidents during New Mexico’s challenging weather and driving conditions.”

If you or a loved one is involved in a collision, the Albuquerque trucking accident attorneys at Singleton Schreiber can be reached at 505-605-2076 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.

Fatal Albuquerque I-40 Crash

Albuquerque, New Mexico, is a city known for its diverse weather patterns, which can pose significant challenges to drivers, particularly on major highways like I-40. On the day of the fatal crash hail and heavy rain were reported to have been known factors in the incident, leading a vehicle involved to lose control.

Inclement weather conditions, such as heavy rain, snowstorms, and high winds, can create hazardous driving conditions, increasing the risk of accidents. In this article, we explore the traffic safety measures that can be implemented to enhance safety on Albuquerque’s I-40 during adverse weather events.

The following tactics can be utilized to keep drivers safe on roads in times of hazardous weather conditions:

Weather Monitoring and Communication: The installation of weather sensors and cameras along I-40 can provide real-time updates on weather conditions, allowing authorities to alert motorists about potential hazards. Additionally, electronic message boards strategically placed along the highway can display weather-related warnings, advising drivers to take necessary precautions or consider alternate routes if conditions are deemed unsafe.
Enhanced Road Maintenance: Maintaining the road surface during inclement weather is crucial to prevent accidents. Regular inspections, quick repairs of potholes and cracks, and proactive measures to address drainage issues can minimize the risk of hydroplaning and improve traction. It is essential for the Albuquerque Department of Transportation to allocate resources and prioritize road maintenance to ensure the highway remains in optimal condition.
Dedicated Emergency Response Teams: Establishing dedicated emergency response teams specifically trained to handle incidents during inclement weather can improve response times and mitigate the impact of accidents. Rapid response can help clear accidents quickly, provide medical assistance to injured parties, and minimize traffic congestion, reducing the chances of secondary accidents.
Variable Speed Limit Signs: Installing variable speed limit signs along I-40 that adjust based on real-time weather conditions can promote safer driving practices. These signs can provide recommended speed limits that are lower than the standard limit during adverse weather, alerting drivers to adjust their speeds accordingly.
Driver Education and Training: Offering educational programs or including relevant modules in driving courses can help drivers develop the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate through rain, snow, or strong winds. Instruction on defensive driving techniques, skid control, and safe braking distances can empower motorists to make better decisions when faced with challenging weather scenarios.

“I-40 is extremely dangerous with large trucks and big rigs traveling cross country through New Mexico, which makes our roads more congested and dangerous,” added Mr. Colón. “The family of this woman deserves justice, and they should absolutely contact a qualified truck accident lawyer who can guide them through the legal process. Our firm’s thoughts are with the family of the victim, and we hope they find the help they need to get through this difficult time.”

Singleton Schreiber Albuquerque car and trucking accident attorneys can be reached at 505-605-2076 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.

San Bernardino 15 Freeway Crash Kills Three

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The Fearless Advocate Team

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Emergency response team help victims in freeway accident crash

A fatal crash occurred on the 15 Freeway just before Yates Well Road in San Bernardino County.

The crash occurred Friday May 19 at about 4:18 PM on the northbound 15 Freeway. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP) the crash involved a 2015 Toyota Camry and another car. This happened one mile before Yates Well Road near the California Agricultural Inspection Station. First responders, including fire fighters, rendered aid to everyone in both vehicles.

Three people were killed in a crash that saw one vehicle rolled onto its side and the other ending up in the middle of traffic lanes. Debris was scattered all across the freeway. CHP officers issued a SIG alert for four hours to perform an investigation and clean up, and all lanes were finally reopened by 6:49 PM. It appears this may have been a head-on collision with a car crossing the center median, however law enforcement officers haven’t released the cause of the crash.

The Yates Well Road exit is just south of the Nevada state border, so there were California and Nevada officials helping clear the crash and assist the people who were hurt.

“To lose three people in one car crash is unbelievable,” said San Bernardino car accident attorney Jerry Singleton. “This is such a tragic loss of life. Our thoughts go out to the families and loved ones of those who were lost, and we hope the CHP investigation uncovers exactly the cause of this collision.”

Anyone involved in a San Bernardino car crash should contact Singleton Schreiber immediately by calling 213-816-0307 or by emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.

San Bernardino Head On Collision Car Crash

Head-on collisions are among the most severe and traumatic accidents on the road. In San Bernardino, these accidents can result from various factors, including distracted driving, drunk driving, speeding, or reckless behavior. The force of impact in a head-on collision often leads to catastrophic injuries such as wrongful death, traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and internal organ damage. The physical, emotional, and financial toll can be overwhelming for victims and their families.

Wrongful Death – None of the people who died in this head on collision “deserved” to die. Whatever the cause, three families will not have a loved one coming home. They may also have lost a primary breadwinner or caretaker. These deaths will have serious ripple effects.

Traumatic Brain Injuries – Even seemingly small TBIs, such as mild concussions, can have lasting and long-term effects. There are hundreds of stories of people who thought their head injury was not a big deal, only to suffer debilitating injuries weeks or months later.

Spinal Cord Injuries – The spine connects various parts of the body, and an injury to the spine can cause paralysis, loss of limb use, pain and more.

These, along with other injuries, won’t just cause pain. They are expensive. Even one night at a hospital can cost $10,000. With the types of injuries that any survivors likely suffered, long hospital stays are to be expected. The bills that will follow can be crippling, even if the injured individuals have insurance.

For those who were killed, there may be excess bills passed along to surviving family members. Meaning that not only have they lost someone they cared about, not only have they lost a breadwinner, they will now have a hefty bill to pay off. For the average family, even a $500 bill will be difficult to pay off. And in the current state of healthcare, any hospital bill will be at least ten times that amount. There are ambulance fees, emergency room fees, and much more.

“When a family loses a loved one in a head on collision, their first thoughts are never about finances, nor should they be,” Mr. Singleton added. “But, our San Bernardino car crash attorneys know that the issue of bills and finances comes up all too often. That’s why we urge anyone who lost someone in a wrongful death car accident to contact a lawyer immediately and let them go to bat for you.”

If you’ve been involved in a head-on collision in San Bernardino, don’t face the aftermath alone. Contact a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer at Singleton Schreiber who can protect your rights and seek justice. Email them at info@singletonschreiber.com or call 213-816-0307.

Four Fresno Apartment Fires Frustrate Firefighters

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The Fearless Advocate Team

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Five firefighters struggle to put out structure fire

In just a 24-hour period, there were four Fresno apartment fires, including one that happened at 9:42 pm on Saturday, May 20 at the intersection of Marks and Dakota Avenues.

Fire crews were on the scene when they were dispatched to 2640 W. Robinson Ave, and when crews arrived three different apartment buildings were involved in the fire. People were apparently trapped inside some of these buildings according to Fresno Fire Battalion Chief Brian Price. However, once inside they found no one. Three apartment buildings were badly damaged and 30 people were displaced – 17 adults and 13 children. The Red Cross was working with these individuals to find new housing.

The fires are still under investigation, but there was talk of it starting on the exterior.

Earlier that day, Fresno firefighters were battling a commercial fire on the 1200 block of North Avenue between Highway 41 and Highway 99. On Friday night, there was a residential fire at the 2900 block of East Gettysburg Avenue, and another at East California and South East avenues.

These fires happened in a highly residential neighborhood near Ricewood Avenue, North Atlas Way, West Dakota Avenue and Marks Avenue. In the last month, Fresno has faced various apartment fires, including one on April 30 that displaced 19 people.

“Fresno apartment fires can be deadly,” said Fresno apartment fire attorney Jerry Singleton of Singleton Schreiber. “And even when people thankfully survive, they are left homeless. Our entire firm wishes every one of the displaced families the best as they search for their next living arrangement.”

Anyone who has been injured, displaced or suffered property damage in a Fresno apartment fire should contact Singleton Schreiber at 559-702-0846 or via email at info@singletonschreiber.com.

Fresno Apartment Fires at W. Robinson and N. Atlas Way

Residential fires in Fresno are dangerous to the entire neighborhood, not just the complex where the fire occurred. According to the Fresno Bee, the fires were so close together in time, that firefighters were at one and had to leave to go fight a different blaze. This means that the entire neighborhood will be exposed to potential hazardous smoke and fumes.

Established in 1877, The Fresno Fire Department is one of the oldest fire departments in the United States. Over the years, Fresno has transformed from a largely farming community with a more rural setting to an increasingly dense residential community. As one of the few places left in California where the average person can buy a home or rent a comfortable apartment, the population has grown significantly. The Fresno area has experienced steady growth even during the pandemic. The City of Fresno’s residential population grew by almost 30,000 from 2020 to 2023.

Those 30,000 people have to live somewhere, and many are renting apartments. The Fresno County population is well over 1 million people, up from 932,000 who lived there in 2010. Again, as populations in Los Angeles, San Francisco, San Jose and other more expensive regions shrink, Fresno continues to grow.

Apartment fires happened in Fresno for a variety of reasons. From poorly built complexes to poorly built products, these fires can spread quickly. Many people own furniture, appliances and other items that burn quickly, and if an apartment complex does not have the proper fire safety standards, they can turn deadly.

There are specific laws in California governing how many fire extinguishers must be available and where they are to be placed. Moreover, if the building materials were not up to code, if the fire safety exits were not placed properly or if appliances were not up to safety code, there could be a serious fire that spreads quickly. Electrical fires can also happen regularly, caused most often by shoddy installation.

Ultimately, the people of Fresno need to be careful, do proper inspections and take time to see if their apartment complex is following fire codes. Otherwise, they could be left homeless or worse. The 30 people in these fires who are now homeless have to find a home in a market that is increasingly expensive, and if they do not have renters insurance they must also purchase furniture, clothes and more completely out of pocket.

“Fresno apartment fires have a ripple effect,” said attorney Jerry Singleton. “These individuals now have to find new homes to live in. That could impact where they work, where their kids go to school, and it could strip them of any savings they have. We urge these residents to find legal counsel to help sort through whether or not they have a civil claim and are eligible for compensation.”

To contact Singleton Schreiber’s Fresno apartment fire lawyers, call 559-702-0846 or via email at info@singletonschreiber.com.

Mission Beach Motorcycle Crash Kills Two

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The Fearless Advocate Team

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Motorcycle spread out across the road after crash

In a horrific accident in Mission Beach San Diego, a motorcycle rider and a passenger in a car were killed when the two vehicles collided Thursday morning, May 18.

Just before 9 am, a motorcycle and a Toyota Prius struck each other at the intersection of West Mission Bay Drive and Quivira Road. The rider was ejected from his bike and died before he could be taken to the hospital, according to San Diego Police Officer David O’Brien.

In the car, a 39-year-old woman was rushed to the hospital after the accident. She later died there, and her age is not known. According to Fox 5 San Diego, a mother and four children were in the Prius at the time of the crash, the four other injured people were taken to the hospital. One of them was a baby. The door of the Prius had to be cut open from the roof in order to give firefighters and paramedics access to the people inside.

According to police reports, the motorcycle was traveling over 100 miles per hour and was driving in the bike lane to avoid other vehicles. The Prius seemed to have the right of way, making a right turn on a green light, when the motorcycle collided with it at a high speed. The motorcycle rider was 34-years-old.

Police had to close down the roads for several hours while investigating the crash.

“Motorcycle accidents are extremely deadly due to high speeds and complete physical exposure of the rider,” said Mission Beach motorcycle attorney Brett Schreiber. “Two people lost their lives, and it seems as if the motorcycle rider was driving recklessly and caused a worst case scenario for the family in the Prius.”

If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Mission Beach, contact Singleton Schreiber today at (619) 771-3473 or email them at info@singletonschreiber.com.

Mission Beach Motorcycle Accident

Mission Beach, located in San Diego, is a popular destination for residents and tourists alike. Its scenic coastline and vibrant atmosphere make it an ideal spot for outdoor activities, including motorcycle riding. Unfortunately, like any area with heavy traffic and recreational activities, motorcycle accidents can occur, posing a significant risk to riders and pedestrians.

The unique nature of motorcycles leaves riders vulnerable to serious injuries in the event of an accident. Without the protection of an enclosed vehicle, motorcyclists are more exposed to the impact of a collision. Factors such as reckless driving, speeding, and impaired riding contribute to the occurrence of motorcycle accidents in Mission Beach.

One common cause of motorcycle accidents is the failure of motorists to see or recognize motorcycles on the road. Due to their smaller size, motorcycles can easily be overlooked by other drivers, especially in congested areas.

Another contributing factor to motorcycle accidents in Mission Beach is the presence of distracted drivers. With the proliferation of smartphones and other electronic devices, drivers often engage in activities that divert their attention from the road. Texting, talking on the phone, or even using GPS navigation can cause drivers to be inattentive to their surroundings, increasing the likelihood of accidents involving motorcycles.

Speeding is also a prevalent issue leading to motorcycle accidents in Mission Beach. Excessive speed reduces a rider’s ability to react to unexpected situations and increases the severity of any potential collision. Additionally, riders who exceed the speed limit are more likely to lose control of their motorcycles, posing a danger not only to themselves but also to pedestrians and other vehicles sharing the road.

In this particular crash, reports show the rider going 100 mph in a residential area. The posted speed limit was likely less than half of that. Additionally, riding a motorcycle in a bike lane jeopardizes the safety of the rider, other cars, bicyclists, and even pedestrians!

“The behavior of the man riding the motorcycle seems to border on criminal,” said Mr. Schreiber. “His speed, riding behavior and complete lack of awareness for the safety of those around him led to disaster. Now, the survivors in the Prius, as well as their family, must explore their legal rights and possibly pursue civil action. While they may be eligible for compensation, they surely would rather not have been in this situation at all!”

Survivors of Mission Beach wrongful death accidents should contact Singleton Schreiber today at (619) 771-3473 or email them at info@singletonschreiber.com.