The Press-Enterprise reported the final outcome of the case of Michael Dwayne Hughes, in a recent article. The 34-year-old man was sentenced to 45 years to life in prison after a massive accident that resulted in the death of three people. Hughes was under the influence on the night of January 8th, 2013 when he broadsided a PT Cruiser that turned in front of his car. As a result of going 63 miles per hour in a 55 zone, and breaking suddenly when the PT Cruiser made an illegal left turn in front of Hughes, the impact caused the PT cruiser to overturn. The collision killed the driver of the PT cruiser, 56-year-old Le Mason, her 12-year-old granddaughter Kylan and best friend of Kyla, Haven. The Press-Enterprise reported that though Hughes was arrested the night of the crash, the case dragged on after the District Attorney’s Office requested that Colton Police Department conduct more investigation into the case. The case then again went on for four and a half years after the crash due to change of attorneys by Hughes, but finally came to a close on July 18th, 2017.
This family was on their way to a church dance, an event supposed to be filled with laughs and smiles. Instead, they never got to make it to their destination. At any moment while driving, a serious and traumatic accident like this one described can happen, and that is a sobering thought. We hope that an accident like this will not occur, but the sad truth on California roadways, is that they do more often than we would like to realize. Some motorists drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs, others simply do not put enough attention into driving, and in mere seconds, lives can be changed forever, or worse, lost.
In an incident like the one reported on, multiple lives were lost, and secondarily but less tragic, costly damage occurred. Fatal injury occurred and it is important to know even though the victims passed away from their injuries, the family of the victims can still file wrongful death claims. The victims of such tragic and unforeseen accidents have rights under California laws.
When any type of injury resulting from accidents due to someone else’s negligence happen, victims should not forget that they have rights. In situations like this, even if the perpetrator is in jail and awaiting criminal charges by the County District Attorney's office, a civil personal injury, or even wrongful death lawsuit can be filed for injuries and damages against the negligent party in civil court. It is important for the victims to find an attorney that can expertly represent victims and even the family of victims. An attorney that will dedicate their full time and experience to their clients is the best choice in ensuring a favorable outcome for victims found in a situation that could be deeply damaging to one’s life.
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