Illegal street racing happens all too often on our Southern California roads. Not only is driving above the speed limit against the law, but it is dangerous, often resulting in serious injuries and death. Take the tragic case of a recent street racing accident involving an SUV.
One of the drivers who is suspected of racing another motorist on the 5 Freeway, is now being held on bail in a Los Angeles jail. According to the CHP, the driver was racing another SUV when he lost control of the vehicle and triggered a violent chain-reaction crash that left three innocent victims dead. The other reckless driver is still on the loose.
Often, these drag racers have a history of driving recklessly and racing other vehicles on local highways and roads. This driver was no exception. He has been convicted several times of excessive speeding. If you or a loved one has been injured by a street racer, contact an experienced auto accident attorney to discuss your legal rights and potential for financial recovery.
Innocent motorists, cyclists, and pedestrians are in danger of being hurt by drivers who participate in these unlawful and deadly races and drifting races. A few illegal drag racing statistics include:
- Highest level of participation is by males between the aged of 15 and 23
- Nearly 70% of illegal street races occur at night time
- 50% of illegal street races occur on highways and 50% occur on commercial streets
Due to the high speed and out of control nature of these accidents, the injuries that result from accidents caused by illegal street racing are severe and can include:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Paraplegia and Quadriplegia
- Internal bleeding
- Amputations
- Burn injuries
This list is not exhaustive. If you have suffered injuries after being involved in an auto accident caused by a negligent driver, speak with an attorney about your ability to recover all of the financial compensation available to you. Sometimes, even seemingly minor injuries result in serious and long term consequences, including physical pains and emotional trauma. The medical expenses, time taken off of work, counseling, etc… related to these injuries are the types of compensatory damages available to auto accident victims.
For more information on how to file a personal injury claim against an illegal street racing who injured you or a loved one in an auto accident, contact experienced auto accident attorney Barry P. Goldberg today.