Gregory Robert Arnold, 18, was killed in a San Francisco car accident when he drove his 1996 Toyota Camry into opposing lanes of traffic and collided with a 2008 Chevy Silverado pickup truck. According to a news report in the Santa Cruz Sentinel, the fatal crash occurred the morning of August 19, 2010 on San Juan Road near San Miguel Canyon Road. Witnesses report that Arnold’s Camry was weaving in the westbound lane of traffic when it crossed over to the eastbound lane. A 16-year-old passenger in the Camry sustained major injuries as did the 24-year-old driver of the Silverado. Officials are looking into what caused the accident.


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I offer my deepest condolences to everyone who knew and loved Gregory Robert Arnold for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. I also wish the two seriously injured victims of this crash the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep these victims and their families in your thoughts and prayers.

Car accident statistics

Aromas is the only census-designated place in California that straddles two counties – San Benito and Monterey. According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), four people died and 240 were injured in car accidents in San Benito County. During the same year, there were 40 fatalities and 1,470 injuries involving car accidents in Monterey County.

What Caused this Fatal Car Crash

Based on this news report, it appears that the teen driver, Arnold, for some reason, was driving erratically at the time of the collision. I trust officials are looking into whether he was under the influence, distracted, speeding or driving recklessly at the time. I trust they are also looking into whether this accident was the result of a vehicle defect or mechanical malfunction.

Fault and Liability

If this crash is determined to have been Arnold's fault, then, the injured victims in this case can file a claim against his estate and liability insurance. When victims sustain major injuries, typically, they or their families are faced with a mountain of medical bills and other expenses such as loss of wages and property damage. Victims in such cases can seek compensation to cover medical expenses, lost earnings, cost of hospitalization, rehabilitation, long-term care and other related damages. An experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyer will be able to advise injured victims and their families about their legal rights and options in such cases.

What are some steps you take to reduce the likelihood of your teen driver getting into an 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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