Pamela Hawkins, 52, was killed in a car accident the morning of April 19, 2010 after she struck another vehicle head-on. According to a news report in The Sacramento Bee, the fatal car crash occurred on Foresthill Road near Happy Pines Drive. California Highway Patrol officials said 56-year-old Graciela Mata was driving a GMC Acadia SUV west on the roadway when she was struck head-on by a Chrysler Sebring driven by Hawkins. Mata was transported to an area hospital with severe injuries. Officials say Hawkins was not buckled up and died at the scene. CHP investigators do not believe speed was a factor, but an investigation is ongoing.

My heart goes out to the families of both these victims. I offer my deepest condolences to Hawkins' family. I hope Mata's injuries were not catastrophic and pray that she recovers quickly and completely from her severe injuries.

Car Accidents

There were 17 fatalities and 627 injuries as a result of car accidents in the unincorporated areas of Placer County, according to CHP's 2008 traffic accident statistics. Countywide, 22 people died and 1,418 were injured as a result of car accidents during the same year.

Causes and Liability Issues

Based on this news report, it appears that Hawkins was the one who went over to opposing lanes of traffic and collided head-on with Mata's vehicle. There are several questions here. Officials say Hawkins was driving within the speed limit on that roadway. Was this the result of a distraction or inattention? Was there a vehicle defect or mechanical malfunction in Hawkins' vehicle which may have caused or contributed to this accident? Although officials say she was not wearing a seatbelt, I would be curious to find out whether Hawkins' fatal injuries were the result of a seat restraint system failure. I trust investigators are looking into these issues and more in order to pinpoint the cause of this crash.

If Hawkins is determined to have been at fault for this crash, Mata could seek compensation from Hawkins' estate or insurance company. Victims who are injured as a result of another person's or entity's negligence can usually seek compensation to cover medical expenses, loss of earnings, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation, pain and suffering. An experienced Sacramento personal injury lawyer will be able to analyze all aspects of an incident and make sure that the victims' legal rights and best interests are protected.

In your opinion, what most commonly causes head-on collisions? We'd love to hear your comments and opinions on this subject.

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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