Phoenix Driver Dies in San Bernardino County Head-on Collision
51-year-old Phoenix resident Daniel John DiRusso was killed in a San Bernardino County head-on crash that occurred on June 20, 2011, around 4:10 p.m. along Highway 95 (I-95), about 15 miles south of Needles. According to the responding California Highway Patrol officers, DiRusso was driving his 2010 Nissan Versa southbound when he was hit by a 2004 GMC Envoy SUV driven by 26-year-old Michael Olsen of Fort Mohave, AZ.
According to California Highway Patrol Sgt. Steve Ahrens, Olsen moved into the path of DiRusso while trying to pass a big-rig he was following. Upon seeing the SUV enter his lane, DiRusso swerved to his right and onto the shoulder and was struck by Olsen head-on, who moved to the left. DiRusso was pronounced dead at the accident scene. Olsen suffered minor injuries in this crash and was immediately transported to Colorado River Medical Center for treatment.
Based on this news report, it is evident that the right-of-way was not respected. Olsen appears to have violated this traffic law and did not make a clear look ahead before entering the other lane. An investigation will reveal whether Olsen was speeding, under the influence of alcohol or distracted. Because of his negligent driving, Olsen may be held liable for DiRusso’s wrongful death.
DiRusso’s family members should seek counsel from an experienced San Bernardino County car accident lawyer to obtain compensation to cover funeral and burial costs, loss of anticipated earnings, loss of love, care and companionship, and other accident-related expenses.
Our law office offers sincere condolences to all those who knew and loved DiRusso for such a shocking loss.
Ross Jurewitz represents people killed in head-on auto accidents in San Bernardino County and is the managing lawyer of the Jurewitz Law Group, a California personal injury law firm dedicated to representing families of head-on car crash victims. If you or a loved one has been killed or injured in a head-on collision in San Bernardino County, please order your free copy of California car accident book. It is full of helpful information that will help you protect your legal rights and it is free to all California residents.
