CBS SanFrancisco reports that the Deputy Sheriff from Alameda County has died after his Volkswagen Beetle was rear-ended by a bus carrying Tesla employees. Initial reports indicate that the man was traveling eastbound on Interstate 580 when traffic slowed, causing him to be stopped in traffic. The bus failed to reduce speed and slammed into the beetle. The driver indicated that the sun had been in his eyes and he did not see the car before the crash. One of the passengers on the bus sustained minor injuries. The bus was operated by a third-party shuttle company not owned by Tesla. Alcohol does not appear to be a factor.
Whenever an accident occurs, it is important to conduct an investigation into all of the potential causes. Many times, an incident may have several different causes. While a driver’s actions are a significant component, other issues are relevant and should be examined. For example, what was the condition of the roadway at the time of the accident? Was the road properly maintained? Were there any obstructions? Another important consideration is the condition of the vehicles involved. Did either have faulty or defective parts? Another question to address is the weather conditions and the time of day. Nighttime driving in rainy conditions may be more treacherous than driving on a clear day.
The incident remains under investigation.
For more information or if you or a loved one has been injured in Bay Area motor vehicle accident, please contact the experienced San Francisco personal injury lawyers at Bostwick & Peterson, LLP for an immediate consultation.