[05-10-2023] Alameda County, CA – Two Elderlies Hospitalized After Single-Vehicle Crash in North Berkeley

Two 80-year-old people were injured after a single-vehicle crash in north Berkeley on Wednesday afternoon, May 10, 2023.

According to the Berkeley Police Department, the collision occurred shortly before 12:30 p.m. at Martin Luther King Jr. Way, north of Vine St.

The female elderly driver was reportedly traveling northbound on Martin Luther King Jr. Way when, according to authorities, she struck a tree and a short retaining wall.

The driver and passenger sustained injuries and were transported to a local hospital. Both elderly occupants from San Pablo are expected to survive the collision.

There were reports that Berkeley firefighters might be needed for an extraction, but it wasn’t clear at the time of publication if that was necessary.

Information regarding the crash’s apparent cause was not immediately available.

Residents pointed out that the intersection of MLK and Vine has a crosswalk and a bus stop right where the accident occurred. They claimed it was “pure luck” that nobody was waiting for the bus and that the tree appeared to have taken the brunt of the impact.

Proficient Car Accident Lawyers in Berkeley

If you or a loved one has been injured in a single-vehicle car accident, our California personal injury and wrongful death attorneys are available for a free consultation. Contact our firm if you have any questions about filing a claim or would like to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys.

Our renowned Berkeley car accident lawyers at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., have years of experience representing accident victims. We have recovered $500 million in compensation for our clients.

Do not hesitate to get in touch with us. Please call (888) 488-1391 or complete the “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What to Do After a Car Accident

While you can’t predict car accidents, you can prepare for them when they happen. A car accident checklist will help you remain composed and organized following a collision. It guides you on what to do and what not to do and the best ways to protect your rights. After a collision, you’re not on your own. Take the following steps:

• First, carefully examine your body for any injuries. Then, try to stay calm and composed. Ensure the safety of everyone present and ensure that they remain at the scene.
• Move the vehicles to the side of the road if possible. To prevent additional collisions, activate your emergency flashers. Remain in a secure area until the authorities arrive.
• Report the accident to the authorities.
• Collect the driver’s name, phone number, and insurance details after the collision. Please take photos of the vehicle, the license plate, and other essential details.
• Do not admit fault, even to the police. Being honest and mindful of your words is crucial when speaking with officers.
• It is important to schedule an appointment with your primary care physician or go to the hospital immediately.
• Remember to report accidents to the insurance company within the specified deadlines. To report the collision, please call immediately and follow the instructions given by the agent.
• The insurance company for the party who caused your accident may contact you on the same day of the crash. Before consulting a lawyer, avoid taking notes or accepting insurance settlement offers.
• Gather and sort all relevant documents, such as the police report, medical bills, injury treatment plans, and driver’s information.
• To learn how our experienced car accident lawyers can assist you, please call (888) 488-1391.

Single-Vehicle Accident Statistics

Among the preventable injuries and deaths in the US, automobile accidents account for a significant percentage. Globally, two million people have died in traffic accidents, and ten million have been injured.

Despite a three-year decline, traffic fatalities in the US increased by 8.3% in 2020, according to the National Safety Council. US traffic deaths increased from 39,107 in 2019 to 42,338 in 2020.

Furthermore, 3,847 people were killed in automobile accidents in California in 2020. In total, 1,587 people died in multi-vehicle accidents, about 41% of all deaths.

Two thousand two hundred sixty people, 59% of the total fatalities, resulted from single-vehicle accidents.

There were at least two vehicles involved in 72% of all collisions, 71% of collisions resulting in injuries, and 77% of all injuries. In 2020, angle-collision accidents killed or injured about 8,000 people.