A woman who was killed in a Lake County car accident the afternoon of July 18, 2010, has been identified by authorities as Marina Bajczi. The Record-Bee reports that the fatal car crash happened on Highway 20 when 73-year-old Ernie Hunt, who was driving a motor home, drifted into opposing lanes of traffic and struck Bajczi's 2005 Chevy Equinox. Hunt's motor home also struck a Chevrolet pickup truck driven by 57-year-old Claude Speegle. Bajczi died at the scene. Four others, including Speegle, sustained injuries. Hunt sustained burns over 20 percent of his body, officials said.

I offer my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Marina Bajczi for their devastating loss. I hope the victims who were injured in this collision recover quickly and fully. Please keep them in your prayers.

Car Accidents

In Lake County as a whole, 14 fatalities and 292 injuries were reported as a result of car accidents in 2008, according to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In the unincorporated areas of the county, 12 people died and 269 were injured in 2008 as a result of car crashes.

Causes and Liability Issues

It is not clear at this point how or why Hunt lost control of the motor home. Was it because of an auto product defect or mechanical malfunction in the motor home? Was Hunt disoriented or did he suffer from a medical condition? Did he have a valid California driver's license?

If Hunt is determined to have been at fault for this accident, he could be held liable for the accident, resulting injuries and wrongful death. If an auto product defect triggered this crash, the auto maker or the manufacturer of the defective product can also be held liable. In such cases, it would be a good idea to preserve the vehicle in question so it can be examined by an expert for evidence of malfunctions or product defects. A skilled California personal injury lawyer will be able to advise victims and their families about how to pursue their rights.

What is the biggest challenge faced by injured victims and their families in the aftermath of a car accident?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.

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