[05-20-2023] Napa County, CA – Two Culinary Students Killed, Two Others Hospitalized After High-Speed Solo-Vehicle Crash in Rutherford

Two culinary students were killed, and two others were hospitalized after a high-speed solo-vehicle crash in Rutherford, Napa County, on early Saturday morning, May 20, 2023.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the collision happened at around 1:56 a.m. on Highway 29/128 near Mee Lane, north of Rutherford, shortly after authorities received a report of a speeding car.

Authorities stated that the driver of a 2012 BMW 325i sedan with three passengers was driving south at high speed when the vehicle lost control, crossed the center line, struck a sign on the highway’s east shoulder, and overturned.

A St. Helena Police officer reported turning on their patrol car’s flashing lights and then seeing the driver speed away before a chase could begin, indicating that the officer clocked the speeding BMW at 127 mph shortly before it crashed near The Prisoner Wine Co. Law enforcement authorities reported that no pursuit had happened.

The right front passenger and the driver were killed in the collision, and the two passengers in the back seat were taken to Providence Queen of the Valley Medical Center to treat what the CHP described as moderate injuries.

Anil Comeli, the city manager of St. Helena, said that both people who died in the crash were students at the Greystone campus of the Culinary Institute of America. Their identities were not immediately revealed.

The collision is still being investigated, and police are determining whether the driver was under the influence of alcohol.

Reckless Accident Victim Lawyers in Napa County

In a reckless accident that leads to the death or severe injury of victims, the families affected can sue the negligent driver. If you or someone you care about suffered injuries in a California car accident that was not your fault, it is crucial to seek a lawyer promptly.

During a free consultation, our skilled lawyers will assess the situation, provide a guideline, and discuss the factors influencing the ultimate settlement amount.

You can rely on our most trusted Napa County reckless driving accident lawyers at Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to effectively represent you in these court proceedings. Our firm has recovered more than $500 million for California clients.

If you want to speak with one of our lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What To Do After A Reckless Driving Accident

Car accidents are unpredictable, but people can take precautions to prepare for them. A checklist kept in the glove compartment can help you know what to do in the event of an accident, outlining the necessary steps to follow, things to avoid, and rights to defend. The following actions can be taken:

• Prioritize personal and others’ safety by moving to a safe location and activating hazard lights, if possible.
• Checking for Injuries: Evaluate oneself and others for injuries and, if necessary, seek immediate medical attention.
• Contacting the Authorities: Report the accident to the police with specific incident information.
• Collecting Data: Gather pertinent data from every party involved, such as names, contact information, license plate numbers, and insurance details.
• Photograph the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any visible injuries, as these can be useful for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
• If witnesses are present, obtain their contact information, as their statements may support the case in the future.
• Notifying the Insurance Company: Notifying the insurance company of the accident and providing accurate and detailed information.
• Consultation with a Lawyer: Seek legal counsel from an experienced attorney specializing in personal injury cases, as they can guide you through the legal process, protect your rights, and help you maximize your potential compensation.

Fatal Reckless Accident Statistics

In the United States, irresponsible driving causes numerous accidents and fatalities annually.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) defines irresponsible driving as operating a motor vehicle without regard for others’ safety. Determining the exact number of people killed or injured annually due to careless driving is difficult. According to AAA statistics, careless driving was the primary factor in 56% of all traffic accidents between 2003 and 2007.

According to available data, speeding is one of the leading causes of fatal car accidents in the United States. Furthermore, drunk driving remains a pervasive and alarming problem throughout the nation.