Rene Rangel, of Dowagiac, Killed In Lawrence Township Pickup Truck Accident on County Road 681
VAN BUREN COUNTY, MICHIGAN (March 8, 2023) – A road worker identified as Rene Rangel was killed in a Lawrence Township car accident along County Road 681.
Van Buren County officials are saying that the accident took place on March 3. Rene Rangel was holding a traffic control sign when he was hit by a pickup truck.
Paramedics were called to the scene of the collision in order to help the victim. Sadly, Rene Rangel died due to the severity of his injuries.
Police suspect that drugs were a factor in the crash. A full investigation into the crash remains ongoing at this time.
Liability For Lawrence Township Car Accidents
Driver intoxication remains one of the leading causes of car accidents in the United States. According to the CDC, “In 2020, 11,654 people were killed in motor vehicle crashes involving alcohol-impaired drivers, accounting for 30% of all traffic-related deaths in the United States. This was a 14.3% increase compared to the number of crash deaths involving alcohol-impaired drivers in 2019.” What many drivers don’t realize is that there are a number of substances that can impair them besides alcohol.
- Cannabis
- Prescription drugs
- Over-the-counter drugs
- Inhalants
- Sleep aids
It is illegal to operate any motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol. No person shall operate a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher. Commercial drivers are held to an even higher standard. They must not drive with a BAC of 0.04% or higher. There are a number of steps that should be taken after any accident with a suspected drunk driver.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- The suspected drunk driver should be given a blood test.
- A thorough investigation should be taken.
If a pickup truck driver was working at the time of a collision, their employer could face liability for the crash. The family of any person that is killed by an intoxicated driver may have legal recourse through a civil claim. Sadly, though, drunk drivers will often do everything in their power to deny liability for a crash.
Investigating A Lawrence Township Car Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our deepest condolences to the family of Rene Rangel. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to the police. This was a preventable tragedy that should have never taken place.
Do you need more information about a Lawrence Township car accident? Our team of consumer safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that drunk drivers are held accountable for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into any crash we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
