Man Charged in 2008 Car Crash That Killed 2 Year-Old
In December of 2008 John Sales of Orange had brought his SUV to a halt on the freeway due to a vehicle in front of him having a blowout. Heavy traffic prevented Sales from going around the stopped car by changing lanes. He was carrying his children in the SUV with him, 2 year-old Sophia and a three month old baby, Connor, who was in the back seat.
2 year-old Sophia was killed when a pickup truck driven by Armstrong Owen Kitchen struck the SUV from behind while driving at a speed of 55 to 65 mph. This impact forced the SUV to be smashed into the disabled car with the blowout. Both children, as well as Sales and Kitchen, were taken to the hospital for treatment of the injuries that were incurred, but Sophia died later that same day. In the accident, she suffered serious chest and head injuries.
Nearly 10 months later, Kitchen has been charged with misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence. At the time of the accident, Kitchen was not found to be under the influence of any drugs or alcohol, but does face charges of possessing marijuana while behind the wheel.
You don’t necessarily have to be driving faster than the speed limit to pose danger to others, or increase the risk of an accident. Drivers should be aware that under certain conditions or weather, it is common sense that you slow down. Motorists should be alert at all times, and aware of what is going on as far as other drivers or slick road conditions. Other distractions such as talking on cell phones, texting or loud music are often recipes for disaster, and motorists should think carefully about their actions while driving.
Families of victims are often eligible to receive wrongful death compensation, which is crucial if the victim was the primary income provider of the family. Wrongful death damages often encompass costs for funeral and burial expenses, and loss of household services. A California wrongful death lawyer can help you determine what rights you are entitled to under the laws.
The Reeves Law Group has offices across California, and is dedicated to representing personal injury victims, including victims of wrongful death. For a free consultation, please contact us at (800)644-8000.