An unlicensed driver caused a fatal car accident the morning of August 3, 2010 in Sonoma County, killing one farm worker and injuring three others. The three injured victims were identified by officials as Domingo Layata-Mendez, 34, Nahum Avendano, 26, and Ignacio Hernandez-Rubio, 17, CBS News reports. Officials say 19-year-old Laureano Tarazas lost control of a Chevy Astro van on Guerneville Road and crashed. Tarazas fled the scene of the crash, but was later arrested on charges of vehicular manslaughter, hit-and-run with great bodily injury and driving unlicensed.

My heart goes out to the family members of the deceased victims and the workers who were injured in this crash. It is indeed fortunate that the three workers did not sustain life-threatening injuries.

Car Accidents

In Sonoma County, 36 people died and 1,988 sustained personal injuries as a result of car accidents, according to California Highway Patrol's Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS). In Santa Rosa, eight deaths and 764 injuries were reported as a result of car accidents in 2008.

Violation of Several Laws

In this particular case, Tarazas left the scene without offering any assistance to the injured victims, which is a violation of California Vehicle Code 20001 (a). He has also been charged with vehicular manslaughter under California Penal Code section 191.5 (a). In addition, he drove without a license, which is also a violation of the vehicle code.

In such cases where negligence or wrongdoing may be involved, it would be in the best interests of injured victims or their families to seek the counsel of a reputed San Francisco personal injury lawyer, who will analyze all facets of the incident and make sure that the negligent parties are held accountable. Injured victims can seek compensation for medical expenses, loss of earnings, hospitalization, pain and suffering and other related damages. Families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for funeral expenses, lost future income, loss of love and companionship and other related damages.

What are the most difficult challenges faced by injured victims and their families in the aftermath of a crash?

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.