A head-on collision in Douglas County on the morning of August 25, 2010, killed Justin M. Burkett, age 21, from Roseburg, and caused serious personal injury to 25-year-old Kindall S. Baker. According to local news station KMTR, the major auto injury accident occurred at approximately 8:45 a.m. when a white 1997 Nissan Altima four-door sedan driven by Baker on the overpass on to northbound Interstate 5 was struck head-on by a black 1990 Acura Integra two-door coupe driven by Burkett. Oregon State Police said that the Acura exited northbound Interstate 5 on a sweeping curve before crossing the double solid center line and crashing head-on into the Nissan. We extend our sincere sympathies to all involved.
Fatal Auto Accident Collision Statistics
According to the Oregon Department of Transportation’s motor vehicle traffic crash statistics, there were 331 fatal collisions in Oregon in 2009. The rate of fatal crashes dropped by 10.30 percent from the previous year, but non-fatal injury crashes rose 5.61 percent. Fourteen people were killed in Douglas County in 2009 fatal auto collisions.
Auto Accident Law and Liability
Under Oregon Revised Statute 811.310, it is illegal to cross the center line on a highway such as Interstate 5. “A person commits the offense of crossing the center line on a two-way, four-lane road if the person is operating a vehicle on a two-way roadway that has four or more lanes for moving traffic and the person drives to the left of the center line of the roadway.” Violation of a criminal statute may be considered negligence. Failure to exercise control of a vehicle or exceed posted speeds may also be negligent. Civil remedies for negligence include compensation for wrongful death, medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and loss of consortium.
Consult an Oregon Auto Accident Attorney
An Oregon auto accident lawyer can assist injured victims or the families of those killed by driver negligence and ensure that those responsible for the harm are held accountable. We believe that it is in the best interest of people and families affected by a fatal auto accident or car crash involving serious injuries to immediately contact a Portland, Oregon personal injury lawyer. The Law Office of Dane E. Johnson provides a free, confidential attorney consultation. Contact us toll free at (800) 714-3204 or online.
Related Web Resources
kmtr.com, Fatal Accident near Winston Kills One
