A 73-year-old man, identified by the County Coroner as George Batsakes, was killed in a Riverside car accident after his car was broadsided by a Verizon work truck at a Palm Springs intersection. According to a KPSP news report, the fatal wreck occurred the morning of July 27, 2010 at the intersection of Dinah Shore Drive and Crossley Road.

Batsakes was the driver of a sedan, which according to initial reports, ran a red light at the intersection and collided with the Verizon truck. Batsakes was killed. The driver of the Verizon truck also sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Investigators do not believe alcohol was involved.

I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of George Batsakes for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.

Car Accidents

According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were eight fatalities and 340 injuries involving car accidents in Palm Springs. In Riverside County as a whole, 220 people died and 8,561 were injured as a result of car accidents in 2008.

Red Light Violation

Based on preliminary reports, officials are saying that this broadside crash occurred because Batsakes ran a red light at the intersection. California Vehicle Code section 21453 (a) states: "A driver facing a circular red signal shall stop at the limit line before entering the crosswalk on the near side of the intersection or, if none, then before entering the intersection, and shall remain stopped until an indication to proceed is shown."

Fault and Liability

If it is determined that Batsakes was at fault, then the other driver can claim compensation from Batsakes' estate and insurance for his injuries and losses. In addition, the work truck driver can also claim worker's compensation benefits from his employer because he was on-the-job at the time of the collision. If the course of the investigation changes over time and if it is determined that the driver of the Verizon truck was at fault, then he and his employer can be held liable for Bastakes' wrongful death.

Injured victims or their families in such cases would be well-advised to contact an experienced Riverside personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the official investigation and make sure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive claim evaluation to injured victims and their families.

What precautionary steps do you take as a motorist while passing through street intersections?

None of the parties mentioned in this article are represented by us at the time this article was posted. The source of our information is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm for a consultation. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. The BISNAR | CHASE personal injury law firm will provide free, confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons and their family members if you mention your source was the “Personal Injury Law Journal." They can be reached at 866-456-5235 during California business hours.