The family of 49-year-old Joe Vega, who was killed in a wrong-way car accident caused by a Verizon truck driver, has received a $7 million settlement from the utilities company. According to a news report in the Santa Barbara News-Press, Verizon truck driver, Mark William Selander, was having an acute diabetic reaction on September 23, 2009, when he drove on Highway 101 in Santa Barbara. Selander headed in the wrong direction for eight miles before slamming into Vega's minivan. Selander escaped with minor injuries, but Vega was killed.

Wrongful Death Lawsuit

Vega's family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against Verizon. The case was moving forward when a settlement was reached. Under the settlement, Vega's widow will receive $4 million and their two daughters each get $1 million and their two grandchildren will each receive $500,000.

Car accidents can have devastating consequences on injured victims and their families. This case is an example of how the death of a beloved family member can cause not only emotional trauma, but also financial strain. In this particular case, Selander was on the job for Verizon when he suffered a diabetic shock while on the road. I trust some of the issues examined in this case were whether Verizon knew about Selander's health condition and if the company allowed him to drive despite that knowledge.

Compensation Issues in Accident Cases

In any car accident case, there are a number of aspects to be examined. If a driver is determined to have been negligent, then he or she could individually be held liable for the crash. However, if he or she is on the job at the time of the crash, then his or her employer could also be held liable.

It takes an experienced California personal injury lawyer to analyze all facets of a case and determine the different sources of compensation available to injured victims or their families. Where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased car accident victims can seek compensation to cover medical or funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages. Wrongful death lawsuits are however not just about money and compensation. In many cases, wrongful death lawsuits serve as a penalty for governmental entities or large corporations whose negligence led to unnecessary injury or death.

In your opinion, what are the most serious consequences faced by injured victims and their families in the aftermath of a car accident?

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.