Luke Eller, a 21-year-old man from Rialto, was killed in a San Bernardino car accident near Lytle Creek, the morning of August 3, 2010. The San Bernardino Sun reports that Eller was a passenger in a 2010 Mazda whose driver lost control of the vehicle. Daniel Sigala, a 20-year-old man from Phelan was driving east on Lone Pine Canyon when he struck an embankment while making a turn. The Mazda rolled over and Eller was partially ejected from the vehicle. Eller died shortly after the crash at a nearby hospital. Sigala suffered injuries as well but left the scene of the accident without contacting law enforcement.

My condolences go out to the family and friends of Luke Eller. My prayers are with them during this difficult time.

Car Accident Statistics

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 107 deaths and 1,925 injuries involving car accidents in the unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County. Also, countywide, 263 people died and 8,504 suffered personal injuries because of car accidents during the same year.

Car Accident Laws and Liability

Based on this news report, Sigala was driving at a speed of at least 50 mph at the time of the accident. An investigation is underway to determine if he was driving recklessly and if his negligence led to the death of his passenger. Leaving the scene of a crash as Sigala did in this case is a serious crime under California law. California Vehicle Code 20001 (a) states: "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."

In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, the victim’s family could file a wrongful death claim. Such a claim usually seeks compensation to cover medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.

Families of deceased victims in such cases would be well-advised to contact a reputed San Bernardino personal injury lawyer, who will examine every angle of the incident and make sure that the negligent parties are held accountable for their actions. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer should also advise victims and their families about how their own car insurance policy might apply to an incident involving an at-fault driver who is uninsured or underinsured.

Do you live close to any dangerous roads that would be safer if it had a lower speed limit?

The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.

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