El Dorado County, CA (July 25, 2024) – A tragic accident occurred on Highway 193 near Circle Drive in El Dorado County, resulting in the death of Stefan Key and serious injuries to a child.
Accident Details and Ongoing Investigation: the crash happened around 1:40 p.m. and involved a Toyota Highlander and a Freightliner towing a trailer. Upon arrival, officers found that the driver of the Toyota, 79-year-old Stefan Key of Hidden Valley Lake, had died at the scene. The 4-year-old passenger sustained major injuries and was airlifted to UC Davis Medical Center in Sacramento. The relationship between the two occupants of the Toyota remains unclear. The driver of the Freightliner was uninjured. The cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that a thorough investigation is essential to determining liability in situations like this. Specialists can analyze the scene to understand the mechanics of the collision, including vehicle speed, braking patterns, and points of impact. Gathering statements from any witnesses can provide valuable insights into the events leading up to the crash. Key factors to consider are the condition of the vehicles, the actions of the drivers, the road conditions, and whether the Freightliner complied with federal regulations.
By pursuing these lines of inquiry, the investigation can help establish the cause of the accident and identify any parties who may be liable for the damages incurred. Depending on the outcome, Key’s family may be able to file a wrongful death claim, and the injured child’s parents may be able to file a personal injury claim.
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Stefan Key during this heartbreaking time. I wish the injured child a fast recovery.
Source: ABC 10