A Santa Cruz Bridge Crash Left Two Pedestrians Seriously Injured After a Head-On Collision
Santa Cruz, CA (November 27, 2023) – A Santa Cruz bridge crash caused major injuries to two pedestrians after 61-year-old Barry Belcher hit them on the Murray Street bridge. Authorities also arrested Belcher suspected of DUI. According to the Santa Cruz Sentinel, the crash occurred around 2:20 p.m. on Friday.
A Santa Cruz bridge crash left two pedestrians seriously injured. Police arrested 61-year-old Barry Belcher for alleged DUI.
A Santa Cruz bridge crash resulted in severe injuries for two pedestrians after they were hit by a 61-year-old Soquel man, Barry Belcher, last week.
Santa Cruz Deputy Police Chief Jon Bush reported that Belcher became unconscious while crossing the bridge, likely due to a drug-related medical emergency.
Consequently, his vehicle veered onto the sidewalk, where a man and woman were walking.
Then, the car struck the woman while the man jumped off the bridge to avoid being hit, landing first on a cement planter box and then into the waters of the Santa Cruz Small Craft Harbor.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene, including Santa Cruz Fire, Central Fire Protection District, American Medical Response, and Santa Cruz Harbor Patrol.
Moreover, local Good Samaritan Dara Gray Tynefield and staff from Chardonnay Sailing Charters also swiftly assisted the victims of this Santa Cruz bridge crash.
As a result, both pedestrians sustained serious injuries but are now in stable condition.
Meanwhile, Belcher, arrested on suspicion of narcotics possession and his second felony DUI charge, was booked into Santa Cruz County Jail and later released on bail.
J&M Tip: Operating a vehicle while under the influence significantly increases the risk of serious accidents, which may lead to injuries or even fatalities. In the aftermath of such incidents, it’s essential to engage a car accident lawyer to ensure your legal interests are protected.
Google Map of the Pedestrian Accident in Santa Cruz, CA
More About Pedestrian Accident Liability
Pedestrians usually get major injuries in pedestrian accidents, such as this Santa Cruz bridge crash. Sometimes, they can even cause death. When it comes to liability, it can fall on the pedestrian or driver based on various factors of the accident. Proving liability can become vague or obvious. The process generally involves finding out who acted carelessly, causing the accident. Any Los Angeles personal injury or accident lawyer will tell you that you need to show the following to prove negligence and liability:
- legal responsibility or “duty of care”
- violated or breached the duty of care
- the violation caused the accident
- the violation resulted in injuries or damages
In some cases, the driver might’ve sped down the road, hitting the pedestrian. This can put fault on the driver. Meanwhile, pedestrians can get hit by a car because they acted against traffic signals, such as jaywalking. In these instances, the pedestrian can become at fault. Other factors, such as lack of road markings and ample lighting, can also lead to pedestrian accidents. In these cases, a pedestrian accident lawyer can help look at all angles to determine liability. Learn more about pedestrian accident lawyers in California here. You can also check out these resources about wrongful death attorneys and personal injury lawyers.
Personal Injury Claims: Santa Cruz Bridge Crash
In this case, the individuals injured in this Santa Cruz bridge crash can have the right to pursue a personal injury lawsuit. However, it can depend on the investigation’s findings. These results can point out any acts of negligence by a person or business which might have contributed to the accident.
Indeed, no amount of money can ever make up for the injuries or death left by an accident caused by someone else. However, receiving the maximum settlement and winning a judgment can give a sense of justice. Also, it can offer some peace of mind, so you can fully heal and recover.
Do you have any legal questions about accidents? Get answers and common accident-related legal advice here:
- Car Accident
- Pedestrian Accident
- Motorcycle Accident
- Hit and Run Accident
- Burn Injury
- Truck Accident
- Bus Accident
- Wrongful Death
Get reliable answers to common legal questions by checking out our full list of practice areas here.
It’s important to get your rightful compensation to help with recovery. Getting advice and guidance from experienced personal injury attorneys can also help you pursue your case. For instance, Jacoby & Meyers has a team of the best lawyers for any car accident, pedestrian accident, or motorcycle accident cases in California, including Los Angeles, Santa Cruz, and Sacramento. Consulting a lawyer can also help you get insight and information about complicated topics, including car accident settlements in Los Angeles and more. If you’d like professional advice about your case, call us today at 800-500-0000 for a free consultation. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to help you.
Jacoby & Meyers does not represent any of the parties mentioned above. Nevertheless, we sympathize with the victims and their families of this Santa Cruz bridge crash.
Need advice on a Pedestrian Accident in Santa Cruz, CA today? Click on this link to learn more.
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