Phyllis Kirk, 65, was killed in a San Diego car accident the morning of February 23, 2010 after her SUV was struck by a taxi on the 5 Freeway. According to a City News Service report, Kirk was traveling south on the freeway near East Village, when she lost control of her 2000 Chevy Blazer as soon as the taxi clipped the rear of the SUV. The Chevy Blazer rolled over several times and came to rest on its roof, California Highway Patrol officials said. Kirk was pronounced dead at the scene. The taxi driver, 47-year-old Andai Ogbagebri was not injured.

I offer my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Phyllis Kirk for their tragic and devastating loss. My heart goes out to everyone who knew and loved this woman. They will certainly be in my thoughts and prayers.

Car Accidents in San Diego

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were 81 deaths and 6,123 injuries involving car accidents in San Diego. Countywide, car accidents claimed 246 lives and 13,527 injuries during the same year.

Driver's Fault?

If the details of this news report are accurate, the Chevy Blazer crashed after the taxi struck it from behind. I trust CHP investigators are looking into how and why this collision occurred. Was the cab driver impaired, speeding or driving recklessly and negligently at the time? If authorities determine that this accident was the cab driver's fault then both he and his employer could be held liable for the accident. Kirk's family could file a wrongful death claim against the negligent parties involved, seeking compensation to cover funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.

Auto Product Liability Issues

If I were a member of Kirk's family, I'd also look into whether design defects or auto product defects in the Chevy Blazer SUV contributed to Kirk's fatal injuries. The Chevy Blazer, especially the older models, is one of the most unstable sport utility vehicles on the road. The Blazer has a long history of rollover accidents and roof crush, where the weak roof caves in and crushes occupants. Kirk's family would be well-advised to contact a reputed San Diego personal injury lawyer, who has successfully handled auto products liability cases. A reputable auto product defect law firm, which has fought against large auto makers including Ford, General Motors, Toyota and Nissan, will bring in experts to analyze the vehicle for evidence of malfunctions and auto product defects.

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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