Chapman University Cinematographer Peng Wang (Aaron Wang) Died In Off-Road Vehicle Accident In Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area During USC Film Project
IMPERIAL COUNTY, CALIFORNIA (April 23, 2022) – A Chapman University cinematographer identified as Peng Wang, “Aaron Wang,” has died in an ATV accident in the Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area.
Imperial County police are saying that the accident took place on Friday. Chapman University cinematography student Peng Wang was helping University of Southern California students with a film project of some type.
Three USC students and the Chapman University student were filming shots while on an off-road vehicle. At some point during the shoot, Peng Wang became partially ejected during a rollover accident.
According to a report from People, all three USC students had on safety harnesses though Peng Wang did not. Paramedics were called to the scene of the accident in order to help the Chapman University victim.
Despite life-saving measures, Peng Wang died due to the severity of his injuries. The Dean of Chapman’s film school called the accident one of the most horrible things they’ve experienced at the school.
The victim was scheduled to graduate the semester he was killed. A full investigation into the collision remains ongoing at this time.
Liability In Imperial County ATV Accidents
Film shoots can be extremely dangerous, especially when weapons or vehicles are being used. This was brought to our collective attention when the cinematographer for Rust was fatally shot by a prop gun during the film’s production. In all, there have been at least 43 deaths and 194 serious accidents at film sets in the United States from 1990 to 2014. There are a number of steps that can be taken in order to prevent accidents during film shoots.
- All safety protocols should be followed.
- The production company should seek the necessary approval permits.
- A production safety supervisor should monitor the film shoot.
Depending on the specific facts of any case, there could be numerous liable parties for an accident during a film shoot. Production companies have a legal obligation to keep film shoots reasonably safe. They must follow all safety codes and get the necessary approval permits. When a production company allows a film set to become unreasonably dangerous, they could be liable in the event of an accident. ATVs are particularly dangerous vehicles even in the best of circumstances. They are more prone to rolling over due to their high center of gravity. There are many steps that should be taken to prevent ATV accidents as outline in the Injury & Illness Prevention Program (IIPP).
- Each passenger must have a seat.
- Horseplay or careless operation is not allowed.
- A helmet may be necessary in certain situations.
- ATVs should be inspected before each use.
- To reduce the risk of rollovers, avoid driving over curbs and/or turning on inclines.
- The driver must operate the vehicle at a speed appropriate for the surface and weather conditions.
- Seat belts should always be warn, when provided.
The family of any victim that died in an ATV accident may have legal recourse through California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. Damages can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. Sadly, though, universities and production companies will often fight hard to deny liability for accidents during film shoots. A wrongful death attorney can investigate all of the unique facts of your case free of cost and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating An Imperial County ATV Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our deepest condolences to the family of Peng Wang. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. It is our sincere hope that there is a thorough investigation into how this tragic accident took place. USC should do the right thing and be totally transparent about what happened.
Do you need more information about an ATV accident during a film shoot? Our team of film safety experts are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions about your rights or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
