Tempe police are reporting a crash that occurred on Monday night near the intersection of Apache and Rural. At this early point in the investigation, it appears that the male driver of a passenger vehicle lost control of the car while attempting a turn, causing the car to strike a light pole and a palm tree. After impact, the car burst into flames large enough for at least one bystander to see.
Two people were in the vehicle at the time of the crash. Police have reported that the male driver died as a result of his injuries and that a passenger was seriously injured. Fortunately for a passenger, a bystander heard the collision and saw the fire, prompting that bystander to pull the passenger from the burning vehicle. Police believe that if the bystander had not intervened, it may have turned out much worse for the passenger.
While police have not definitively determined what caused the crash, at this time they believe that speed may have been a factor and they are trying to determine whether alcohol was involved. The current condition of the passenger is not known nor were the extent of the passenger’s injuries.
Automobile collisions are one of the largest causes of death across America. In fact, automobile collisions claim more lives than homicides yet the threat posed by auto crashes if often underplayed. Statistically, most people will never engage in anything more dangerous than driving an automobile during their lives. While behind the wheel, it is each driver’s responsibility to act with due care and caution towards the safety of those within their car and others on the road. Yet it only takes one careless driver to cause a multi-car collision that can lead to serious injuries or even death.
Technological advances have made cars and other passenger vehicles safer over the decades. New cars today have dozens if not hundreds of safety designed devices to protect occupants, from seat belts to anti-lock brakes to air bags. But even the most advanced car with the best safety devices can be involved in a fatal accident at any time.
Many people acknowledge that other drivers pose a threat to their safety while they are riding in a car but fewer people consider the driver of the car they are riding in as a threat. Regardless of whose car you are in, when you become a passenger in a vehicle, you assign the control of your personal safety over to the driver and you trust that the driver will act with care towards you. Most of the time, this is exactly what happens and a passenger is transported safely. On occasion, though, a driver is negligent and may cause an accident, injuring his or her passenger.
If you have been hurt while a passenger in another’s vehicle, it is important to realize that you may have a legal claim for your injuries. A personal injury attorney will be able to help you understand your legal rights and whether you may be entitled to financial compensation.
At Abels & Annes, P.C., we are experienced Phoenix car accident lawyers with the necessary skills to bring a successful personal injury claim. We have represented many clients and have helped them recover millions of dollars for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you have been hurt in an accident, we will provide you with a free case consultation at (602) 819-5191 at any time that is convenient for you. There is never an obligation associated with the first call so please reach out to us today and let us help you down your path to recovery.
Prior Blog Entries:
Light Rail Crash in Tempe Leaves Several Injured, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published August 26, 2013.
Despite Increases in Deaths, Public Less Concerned About Distracted Driving, Phoenix Injury Lawyer Blog, published August 24, 2013.
Resources:
Bystander pulls passenger from car, driver dies in crash, Fox 10 News, published August 27, 2013.