[12-12-2024] Los Angeles County, CA – Fatal Multi-Vehicle Collision in Sawtelle Leaves One Dead, Two Injured
Sawtelle, Los Angeles County – A multi-vehicle accident in the Sawtelle area of Los Angeles on Thursday night resulted in one fatality and left two others injured.
The Los Angeles Police Department responded to the scene at approximately 8:12 p.m. at the intersection of Centinela Avenue and Olympic Boulevard.
Witnesses captured cellphone footage showing extensive damage to multiple vehicles, including a sedan that had collided with a large tree in the center median and an overturned SUV.
Authorities confirmed that one person died at the scene. Another individual was transported to the hospital in critical condition, while a third person sustained minor injuries.
Investigators are still working to determine the cause of the crash, and the exact number of vehicles involved has yet to be confirmed. The identities of those involved have not been disclosed.
As cleanup efforts continue, eastbound lanes of Olympic Boulevard between Centinela Avenue and Stewart Street remain closed until further notice. Drivers are advised to seek alternative routes.
Source: KTLA
Who Can Claim Compensation in a Fatal Multi-Vehicle Accident?
Compensation claims in a multi-vehicle accident can involve multiple parties, depending on the circumstances and the determination of fault:
1. The Family of the Deceased Victim
- Wrongful Death Claim: The deceased person’s immediate family (spouse, children, or parents, depending on state laws) may file a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship or emotional support
2. Injured Parties
- Medical Expenses: Victims who sustained injuries (both critical and minor) can seek compensation for medical bills, ongoing treatment, and rehabilitation.
- Lost Wages: If injuries result in missed work or reduced earning capacity, victims can claim lost wages or loss of future earning potential.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation may be sought for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life caused by the accident.
3. Vehicle Owners
- Property Damage: Owners of vehicles damaged in the collision can claim the cost of repairs or the total value of their vehicle if it is declared a total loss.
- Rental or Replacement Costs: Expenses incurred for alternative transportation while the vehicle is repaired or replaced can also be claimed.
4. Other Potential Claimants
- Pedestrians or Bystanders: If any bystanders or pedestrians were injured or their property damaged, they may also claim compensation.
- Insurance Companies: Depending on the policy terms, insurance providers may seek compensation from the at-fault driver or their insurer (subrogation) after paying claims to their own policyholders.
Determining Fault
To determine who is eligible to claim compensation, the fault must be established. Fault can be influenced by:
- Eyewitness accounts
- Video Footage
- Police reports
- Accident reconstruction
Sources of Compensation
Compensation typically comes from:
- The at-fault driver’s insurance policy
- Personal injury protection (PIP) or MedPay coverage, if applicable
- Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (if the at-fault party lacks sufficient insurance)
Legal Assistance
Given the complexity of multi-vehicle accidents, victims and families often benefit from consulting a car accident lawyer in California to ensure they receive fair compensation for their losses. An attorney can help navigate insurance claims, negotiate settlements, and, if necessary, file lawsuits.
If you need a personal injury lawyer in Los Angeles County, call My Lawyer Mark at (866) 721-5808 and schedule a free consultation. If you also need a copy of your accident’s police report, request it for free by filling out this contact form:
