San Bernardino Accident Takes Life of Well-Known Fashion Photographer
Oct 8, 2009 Auto & Car Crashes, Personal Injury, Wrongful Death - Murder
Alberto Jose Serejo, a well-known Brazilian fashion photographer, was killed in San Bernardino County in an accident involving an impaired driver, who according to the California Highway Patrol was under the influence of prescription medication and inhalants. The photographer was involved in a photo shoot in front of the Joshua Tree Inn when the accident occurred.
Joshua Tree resident Daniel Howell was driving a Mazda pickup truck in the area when he veered off the eastbound lanes of highway 62 and ran over the curb, hitting Serejo who died from the injuries he suffered at an area hospital. Howell did not stop when the accident occurred, and continued to drive on until he crashed the Mazda again about an hour later. After the second accident, he was arrested and officers were able to determine that he was involved in the accident the took the life of Serejo as well. Howell has been booked on investigation of DUI, hit and run driving and vehicular manslaughter.
Family members who are survivors of victims in tragic accidents like this one may be eligible to receive wrongful death damages from the party who was negligent, and caused the accident. Wrongful death simply means that the victim was killed due to the carelessness or negligence of another party. Survivors may be eligible for compensation for funeral and burial expenses, as well as other losses caused by the death of a loved one, including economic and non-economic losses.
The time period following a death can be devastating and confusing for survivors. Financial worries compound the devastation, especially if the victim was the sole income provider for the family. Immediate expenses are a major concern, including monthly household bills, groceries and education expenses. Survivors may be compensated for the loss of income caused by the death of their loved one. Compensation for loss of care, affection and companionship may also be awarded to the survivors, and the spouse may be eligible to file a claim against the responsible party for loss of consortium.
While it is certainly clear that no amount of money can replace a loved one, it is important to your livelihood to know that survivors have the right to hold the negligent party responsible and accountable for his negligent actions. A San Bernadino auto accident attorney can help survivors file a claim that includes all of the compensation that the family of the deceased is eligible for.
The Reeves Law Group has offices across California and is dedicated to representing personal injury victims, including victims of wrongful death. Please contact us for a free consultation at (800) 644-8000.
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