Los Angeles Injury Attorney Blog

Three people were tragically killed in a horrific crash Saturday night in Vernon, the Los Angeles Times reported. The triple fatality accident occurred at Alameda Street and Vernon Avenue, just before 10 p.m. The victims were identified as Rafael Chavez-Rodriguez, 30, Jessika Quinonez-Gonzalez, 25, and Amanda Samayoa, 70 all of Los Angeles. A 6-year-old boy in the vehicle, identified as Jessika's son, suffered non-life-threatening injuries. The four victims were in a vehicle travelling north on Alameda Street in a Honda when their vehicle was struck by a Dodge pickup at East Vernon Avenue.

The driver and sole occupant of the Dodge, Issac Bandt. fled the scene, but was later apprehended and arrested on suspicion of hit-and-run. Police are reportedly investigating the possibility that Bandt may have been driving under the influence when the collision occurred. Anyone who saw what happened was asked to call police at (323) 587-5171.

Cause of the Fatal Los Angeles County Accident

Based on the news reports, it appears that the driver of the Dodge who fled the scene may be responsible. However, the incident remains under investigation. Regardless, the driver of the Dodge broke the law by fleeing the scene of the accident. Under the California Vehicle Code § 20001, "The driver of a vehicle involved in an accident resulting in injury to a person, other than himself or herself, or in the death of a person shall immediately stop the vehicle at the scene of the accident."

Personal Injury and Wrongful Death Liability

In situations such as this one, the family members of the victims of this crash would be well-advised to contact a California wrongful death attorney as soon as possible. An attorney can advise the victims' family members of their legal rights and options to hold the driver or any other negligent parties accountable for their loss. Damages available in a wrongful death action may include financial compensation for final medical expenses, funeral and burial expenses, lost earnings, and loss of love, care, affection and companionship.