Thousand Palms, CA (June 6, 2024) – In a heartbreaking incident, Jose Manuel Rodriguez, 34, of Coachella, lost his life after being ejected from his vehicle during a rollover crash on Interstate 10.
Accident Details: The crash occurred at approximately 10:30 a.m. on the eastbound side of the I-10, between Cook Street and Monterey Avenue. Rodriguez was driving a Ford Expedition when the vehicle rolled over multiple times before coming to a stop on its side. According to the California Highway Patrol, Rodriguez was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the accident and was the sole occupant of the SUV.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury lawyer, I find that several factors of this case warrant examination. The main question is what caused Rodriguez’s vehicle to turn over. Several factors need to be investigated.
- Vehicle Issues: To identify any manufacturing or mechanical issues, a thorough investigation into the vehicle’s history, including any recalls or prior maintenance issues with the Ford Expedition, is necessary. The vehicle manufacturer might be held liable if a defect in the vehicle’s design or manufacturing contributed to the accident or the injuries sustained. The maintenance company may be held liable if there was a failure or defect in the vehicle and the company failed to fix it during routine maintenance.
- Road Conditions: Investigators must also consider the road conditions. Road defects or imperfections may have caused the Ford to roll over. If a defect caused the accident, then the municipality in charge of maintaining the roads may be liable.
- Driver Behavior: Investigators must examine Rodriguez’s behavior prior to the crash. Was he speeding? Impaired? Or did another driver near him act negligently to make Rodriguez attempt to maneuver out of their way? This information can be ascertained through witness statements, toxicology reports, and video surveillance.
Depending on the facts, Rodriguez’s family may be able to file a wrongful death claim against the negligent party responsible for the crash. Even if Rodriguez’s behavior or failure to wear his seatbelt contributed to the crash, his family may still be able to collect reduced compensation based on California’s comparative negligence laws.
My sincerest condolences to the family of Jose Manuel Rodriguez during this challenging time.
Source: KESQ