El Dorado County, CA (November 28, 2024) – Two individuals lost their lives in a tragic head-on collision on U.S. 50 in El Dorado County on Thanksgiving Day, November 28, 2024.
Accident Details: The California Highway Patrol (CHP) identified the deceased as Peggy Liu, 50, of Fremont, California, and Donald Smith, 84, of Wellington. The incident occurred around 5:35 p.m. east of Audrain Way, approximately 13 miles south of South Lake Tahoe. Smith was driving a 2015 Chevrolet Traverse eastbound when it collided head-on with a westbound 2001 Toyota Sequoia driven by Jeffrey Chen, 28, of Kirkland, Washington. Peggy Liu, a passenger in the Toyota, was fatally injured. Jeffrey Chen sustained major injuries, while his passengers—Shi Chen, 64, Ellen Liu, 60, and Kevin Chen, 26—suffered moderate injuries. Smith, the driver of the Chevrolet, also died at the scene. The cause of the crash remains under investigation by the CHP.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this tragic crash raises critical legal questions regarding liability and causation. The investigation will likely focus on identifying the factors that led to the collision, such as driver behavior, road conditions, and vehicle issues. Additionally, toxicology reports for the drivers may help determine whether alcohol or other substances influenced their actions.
For Peggy Liu and Donald Smith: If negligence is determined to be the cause of the crash, the families of both Peggy Liu and Donald Smith may have grounds for wrongful death claims to seek compensation for their untimely losses. These claims could cover damages such as funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and emotional suffering.
For Jeffrey Chen and His Passengers: Jeffrey Chen and his passengers, who suffered moderate to severe injuries, may be able to pursue personal injury claims if negligence caused the accident. These claims can help cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
My thoughts are with the families of Peggy Liu and Donald Smith as they grieve this profound loss. I also extend our hopes for healing and recovery to Jeffrey Chen and his passengers during this difficult time.
Source: KOLO TV