Yuba County, CA (September 29, 2024) – On Sunday night, September 29, 2024, 22-year-old Joshua Steven Barrick was tragically struck and killed in a hit-and-run crash along Feather River Boulevard, just south of Algodon Road in Yuba County.
Accident Details: Authorities discovered Barrick’s unresponsive body around 8:30 p.m., approximately three miles west of Plumas Lake. Despite life-saving attempts, he was pronounced dead at the scene. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) stated that no witnesses were present at the time of the crash, and the driver responsible fled the scene. Alcohol is considered a factor in the crash, according to CHP’s Yuba-Sutter office.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. In this case, both the hit-and-run and potential DUI are significant factors that can establish negligence.
- Hit-and-Run: A hit-and-run, where the driver leaves the scene of an accident without rendering aid or reporting the incident, is considered a blatant disregard for the safety and well-being of others.
- DUI: Similarly, driving under the influence (if proven) demonstrates a clear breach of the legal duty that all drivers have to operate their vehicles responsibly and safely.
Civil Claim: These actions directly violate the duty of care that drivers owe to others on the road, including pedestrians like Joshua Steven Barrick. When a driver’s negligent actions result in a fatality, they can be held liable. This negligence, once proven, could provide a basis for the family of Joshua Steven Barrick to file a wrongful death claim. Through such a claim, the family could seek compensation for the emotional and financial damages they have suffered, including funeral costs, loss of future income, and the pain of losing a loved one.
I extend my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Joshua Steven Barrick as they cope with this sudden and devastating loss. Losing a loved one under such tragic circumstances is unimaginable, and my thoughts are with them during this painful time.
Fuente: ABC 10