Cathedral City, CA (July 25, 2024) – On Thursday evening, a tragic sequence of events unfolded in Cathedral City, leading to the death of a hit-and-run drive, 56-year-old Paul Devine from Palm Springs.
Accident Details: The incident began around 6 p.m. near the intersection of East Palm Canyon Drive and Monty Hall Drive, close to the Cathedral City Civic Center. Devine’s vehicle struck another car. The injured party was taken to the hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. After the collision, Devine fled the scene and continued east on Palm Canyon Drive. Less than a mile away, near Officer Jermaine Gibson Drive, Devine lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a rocky hillside. He was pronounced dead at the hospital a few hours later.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. Determining the cause of the first collision is crucial. Consider various factors, including driver behavior, road conditions, and vehicle mechanical issues. The presence of alcohol or drugs, which the police are still investigating, could also be a factor. The cause of Devine’s loss of control leading to the second crash must also be thoroughly examined, looking at the same issues.
If a mechanical issue is present, it might implicate the vehicle manufacturer or maintenance provider. Poor road conditions might suggest a claim against local government entities responsible for road maintenance.
Comparative Negligence: If Devine was found to be intoxicated or speeding, it could affect liability and recovery options. Under California’s comparative negligence laws, even if Devine was partially at fault, his family could still file a wrongful death claim for damages. Comparative negligence allows for a reduction in damages proportionate to the driver’s fault but does not necessarily bar recovery entirely.
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Paul Devine during this difficult time.
Source: Desert Sun