Posted in Accident & Injury on March 26, 2014

California investigators have determined that unsafe driving, not mechanical problems caused the Porsche carrying “Fast & Furious” star Paul Walker to lose control and crash, killing the actor and the vehicle’s driver.

According to a report by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and California Highway Patrol, the men were travelling up to 94 mph when the driver, Roger Rodas, struck a pole. Both men died at the scene. Investigators were able to determine the vehicle’s speed based on a “yaw” mark left on the road. Tire yaw marks are created when the driver’s steering causes the vehicle to slide sideways while the wheels are still rolling forward.

Crash Reconstruction

If a motor vehicle accident resulted in death or serious injury, it is vitally important to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. Remember, although police may secure the scene, take photographs and write a report, they may not have the time or resources to collect all the evidence required to perform an in-depth investigation. While building your case, your attorney should have a crash reconstruction expert conduct a thorough post-crash investigation as soon as possible.

Don’t Wait

Time is not your friend when investigating a crash scene. Evidence left on the road, such as skid marks, yaw marks, tire tracks, fluid stains, vehicle debris, and any paint marks left by the police indicating points of impact or final resting positions, will soon begin to disappear.

By waiting too long, evidence may also fade in areas away from the pavement. Gouges in the dirt, tree scars, as well as damage to poles, mailboxes, and other structures must be carefully documented and evaluated in a timely manner.

In addition to preserving evidence at the scene, investigators need to examine all vehicles involved in the incident. If too much time has passed, they may be difficult to find. Oftentimes, owners will move their vehicle to another location, sell it, or even scrap it for profit.

Read about automotive “black boxes.”

Road Defects and Design Flaws

An experienced accident reconstructionist can also help determine if roadway defects or design flaws contributed to the cause of the accident. It is crucial to have forensic experts who are knowledgeable about government regulations and industry standards.

You can count on Elk & Elk

If you have been seriously injured or lost someone you love in a motor vehicle accident, you can rely on us for help in your recovery. For information about how our Ohio lawyers can help you obtain compensation for your damages after an accident, call 1-800-ELK-OHIO or contact us online.

Source: “Paul Walker car crash was caused by speed – not mechanical problems: investigators” AP/New York Daily News, no author given, March 26, 2014.