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Several struck by car while waiting near stalled vehicle

On Behalf of | Jan 5, 2022 | Motor Vehicle Accidents

When someone’s car breaks down on the road, the best suggestion is for all occupants of the vehicle to exit and stand as far away from the vehicle and the shoulder of the road as possible. If weather or topography makes that impossible, occupants should remain in the stalled vehicle with their seat belts on for safety reasons and wait for assistance. Standing next to a stalled vehicle on the road is dangerous, especially on interstates, as made evident in a recent tragedy in Commerce City, Colorado. 

Details regarding the incident 

Sometime on the morning of Sunday, Jan. 2, a vehicle broke down along I-270 near the I-76 interchange. The occupants of that vehicle were apparently standing next to their stalled vehicle when another vehicle came along and struck both the car and all of those standing next to it. Three people were struck, and all were rushed to a local medical center. One of the victims later died, and no word was given as to the condition of the other two. 

The driver of the car that struck the bystanders was also taken to the hospital for treatment of unspecified injuries. Authorities are still investigating the crash and did not say whether impairment, road conditions or a combination of both led to the accident. Nevertheless, those struck are now having to deal with their own injuries as well as the death of a friend and loved one. 

Legal recourse for victims 

While it will not bring back the life lost or heal the injuries the others suffered, those in Colorado adversely affected by the horrible tragedy reserve the right to pursue personal injury and a wrongful death claim against the alleged at-fault driver.  Depending on the investigation’s findings, the plaintiffs may use evidence of negligence or wrongdoing on the part of the driver in their cases against the person in an attempt at recovering damages. Only by working with an experienced personal injury attorney can they gain a full understanding of their rights and options while increasing their chances for a successful outcome. 

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