Pollock Pines, CA (June 22, 2024) – On Saturday morning, a tragic accident in Pollock Pines resulted in the death of 55-year-old Stephen Ray Bethel.
Accident Details: The crash occurred around 8:20 a.m. on the 6200 block of Pony Express Trail, where Bethel’s vehicle went off the roadway. Despite efforts to save him, Bethel succumbed to his injuries on the way to the hospital.
Investigation: According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), Bethel was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash. The details surrounding the crash are still under investigation, and whether other occupants were in the vehicle remains unclear.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects require further consideration. The fact that Bethel was not wearing a seatbelt may impact the case. California law requires all vehicle occupants to wear seatbelts. Failure to do so can be seen as contributory negligence. However, it does not preclude Bethel’s family from filing a wrongful death claim if the negligence of other parties contributed to the accident. Investigators should look into whether there were any mechanical failures or defects in Bethel’s vehicle that could have contributed to the crash. The state of the roadway, including potential hazards, poor signage, or maintenance issues, should be evaluated to determine if external factors played a role.
My sincerest condolences go to the family and friends of Stephen Ray Bethel during this heartbreaking time.
Source: KCRA