Two teen girls, Isabella Chinchilla, 16, and Kylie Lindsey, 17, were killed when the vehicle they were travelling in crashed into a Georgia State Patrol car on Highway 27. From the information available, a series of poor choices combined that Saturday night, leading to heartache for family and friends.
Dangerous Speeds in a Dangerous Intersection
According to reports, the driver of the vehicle turned in front of the GSP car, which was travelling at 90 miles per hour in a 55 mile per hour zone. The GSP’s car was not en route to an emergency and did not have its lights or sirens engaged. Neighbors in the area describe the scene of the accident as dangerous, despite signage indicating a recommended speed of 45 miles per hour at the crest of the hill. Residents report this as a sight where at least half a dozen other accidents have occurred. Anthony Scott, the trooper that was driving the GSP car at excessive speed that night was fired. Scott had been previously disciplined for two other accidents he was involved in.
Inexperienced Drivers and Poor Choices
Dillon Wall, the 18 year-old driver of the Nissan, failed to properly estimate the speed of the GSP car when he turned in front of it. Dillon was also driving in excess of the posted speed limit of 55 miles per hour. Lindsey evidently was not wearing a seatbelt and was thrown from the vehicle.
Preventing Tragic Automobile Crashes
News like this is every parent’s nightmare. While no amount of preparation can prevent every accident from happening, there are steps that parents of driving teens can take to help them make the best choices possible.
- Insist that every occupant of the vehicle is wearing a seatbelt at all times.
- Emphasize safety over all else – if in doubt about clearance; wait until you’re sure.
- Stress the importance of obeying posted speed limits and driving safely for conditions.
- Model good driving behavior, including avoiding distracted driving.
Determining Liability in Automobile Accidents
If you or a loved one is involved in an accident involving multiple parties, especially government entities, determining liability can be complex. And, while no amount of money can take away the pain of losing a loved one or being seriously injured, it can definitely help pay medical bills and other expenses related to the accident.
Based on the limited information that has been provided about this accident, there are a number of parties that may be liable for this accident.
- The state trooper – for speeding and driving in an unsafe manner.
- The GSP – who knew that the trooper had a history of accidents and an unsafe driving record.
- The teen driver – for driving in excess of the speed limit and turning in unsafe conditions.
- The DOT – for not taking steps to make the intersection safe for drivers. It was apparently on notice of the dangerous intersection based on numerous prior accidents.
Have You Been Injured In A Georgia Car Accident?
If you’ve been injured in a Georgia car accident you should speak with an experienced car accident attorney as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our office directly at (800) 234-9556 to schedule your free consultation.