Early Sunday morning, eight people were taken to the hospital after a suspected drunk driver crashed into several vehicles at an Anaheim intersection. According to ABC News, the accident happened at the intersection of Gilbert Street and La Palma Avenue when two cars filled with people were struck by a driver who was later arrested for felony DUI. The collision was declared by paramedics to be a mass casualty incident because of the high number of people injured. The conditions of the victims are currently unknown.
Location of the Accident
The area of the accident, at the intersection of La Palma Avenue and Gilbert Street, does not appear to be unusually dangerous as it is flat and straight, with no apparent obstructions to a driver's view. It seems the accident above was likely caused by impaired or perhaps distracted driving. This same area of La Palma Avenue has been the location of other accidents, however, including a fatal accident in July of 2011. La Palma Avenue in this area includes a long stretch without traffic lights or other traffic control devices, and the speed limit is 45 miles per hour. It is possible drivers simply "tune out" the fact there are side streets and a light at Gilbert, especially if the driver is impaired or distracted.
Insurance Issues
The sad reality in the case above is that not all of the people injured will likely resolve fair compensation for their injuries. Given the number of people hurt and the fact that all needed hospital treatment, it is highly likely the alleged drunk driver's auto insurance policy will be inadequate. However, there is a chance that other insurance (uninsured motorist or under-insured motorist coverage) could make up some of the inadequacy. The insurance issues arising from an accident like this one can be complicated and require legal advice.
If you or a loved one has been badly injured in an auto accident in Orange County, a free consultation with an injury attorney may help you understand your legal rights and complicated insurance issues.
SOURCE: Anaheim crash injures 8; driver arrested for driving under influence, KABC News, Orange County News, May 12, 2013
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