KTLA news has reported a police cruiser, believed to be on its way to a shooting in Inglewood, was involved in a deadly crash early Tuesday.  At about 1:00 a.m. this morning, the Inglewood police vehicle was involved in a collision with a Range Rover at Prairie Avenue and Manchester Boulevard, near the Forum.  According to the report, an unidentified female passenger in the Range Rover was killed in the accident, and two officers were injured.  It is not yet known who was at fault for this tragic automobile accident.

See the KTLA news story HERE.

As for the operation of the Inglewood Police unit, under California law the police are not permitted to drive with impunity from the moment they activate their sirens and flashing lights. Even though the Vehicle Code sets out certain protections for law enforcement officers in the performance of their duties, the law does not relieve the driver of a police vehicle from the duty to drive with due regard for the safety of all persons using the highway.  A police officer operating his vehicle in the line of duty must drive in such a manner as would not impose upon others an unreasonable risk of harm.   Generally speaking, the question is whether the officer acted as a reasonable, prudent emergency driver under all of the circumstances, including that of the emergency.  In the case above, it remains to be seen what caused the tragic accident that took the female passenger’s life, but an analysis of responsibility must take into account the law above.

Compensation for the victims of emergency vehicle accidents, caused by the operator’s negligence, should be an important concern for all Californians.  When a police officer or other public employee negligently causes a traffic accident and serious injuries or death result, the public entity should be held accountable.  An Orange County auto accident attorney with experience at handling such cases can make a fair assessment of these claims.  Mr. Ralph has 20 years of experience handling personal injury cases, including those for wrongful death.  He can be reached at 714-919-4415 for a FREE CONSULTATION.

Have you or a loved one been injured in an automobile accident involving a public employee?

•  Nothing in this post is intended to suggest the Law Offices of Paul W. Ralph currently represents anyone involved in the news story above.  This posting should not be construed as legal advice or an opinion on the merit of any particular matter.  A consultation is the best way to obtain an assessment of your potential case.