Pennsylvania police are often dispatched to the scene when a motor vehicle collision occurs. It is not uncommon for investigators to determine that driver negligence was a causal factor in a particular incident. Often, a driver who is speeding or distracted loses control of steering and veers off the road. It is especially tragic when such incidents result in the death of a passenger.
A recent tragedy took place when a 28-year-old driver whose vehicle went off the road on a bend and smashed into a concrete barrier. Investigators say there is evidence that the driver was speeding at the time and failed to properly negotiate a left bend in the road. Upon impact with the barrier, the vehicle went into a spin.
A 24-year-old man was riding in the front seat of the vehicle that crashed. Sadly, he was ejected from the car and did not survive his injuries. Police noted that he was not wearing seat restraints when the accident occurred. The driver of the car suffered minor injuries, and she was taken to an area hospital for treatment.
There are charges pending against the driver in a Pennsylvania District Court. In this state, contributory negligence laws apply if an accident victim is found partially responsible for damages. When a fatality has occurred, a spouse, parent or other immediate family member may file a wrongful death claim in a civil court if he or she can present evidence that proves another person’s negligence was a causal factor in a loved one’s death.