Peggy Agaplou Injured In Head-On Car Accident With Tesla On Highway 178 By Rancheria Road
BAKERSFIELD, CALIFORNIA (June 15, 2022) – A woman identified as Peggy Agaplou was injured in a Bakersfield head-on car accident on Highway 178 by Rancheria Road.
Kern County police officials are saying that the accident took place around 1:00 p.m. on Monday. Peggy Agaplou was in a 2010 Ford traveling east on Highway 178 when a Tesla swerved into the path of her vehicle before hitting her car.
Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the collision in order to help the victim. Peggy Agaplou was transported to the Kern Medical Center in order to receive treatment.
Neither drugs nor alcohol are believed to have been factors in the crash. A full investigation remains ongoing at this time.
Liability In Bakersfield Head-On Car Accidents
Head-on collisions are among the most dangerous types of collisions that a person can be involved in. They account for only around 2% of all accidents but over 11% of all traffic fatalities. According to the NHTSA, head-on collisions are more likely to occur in rural areas. There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a head-on crash including:
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Speeding
- Drug use
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid collisions. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21460, no person shall cross over a double yellow line unless such an action is permitted by the statute. If a driver does cross a double yellow line and collides with another vehicle, they will typically be held at fault in the event of a collision. Depending on the facts of any case, liability could extend beyond any driver.
A car company such as Tesla could be held liable for a head-on collision. All new model Tesla vehicles come equipped with “Autopilot.” This is a semi-autonomous driver assist system that helps keep the Tesla in one lane of traffic. It also provides emergency breaking. If a Tesla vehicle crosses into opposing lanes of traffic while in Autopilot mode, this could point to a latent defect with the vehicle software or hardware. There are a number of steps that should be taken after any car accident with a Tesla.
- It should be determined if the Tesla was in Autopilot mode.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
Any person that is injured in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. Sadly, though, car companies and insurance providers will often fight hard to deny liability for any collision. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Bakersfield Head-On Car Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our best wishes to Peggy Agaplou as she continues to recover. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to investigators. This was a preventable collision that should not have taken place.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a Bakersfield head-on car accident? There are a number of laws designed to protect your rights. Our team of consumer safety advocates are here for you. We care deeply that accident victims get the medical and financial support that they need in order to recover. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of assistance after an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
