Last Friday, June 28th, a 21-year-old Kona man was killed in a car crash. The man, Alvin “Kolu Boy” Godfrey Castro III, was a soon-to-be father heading to work on Mamalahoa Highway around 4:45 am.
The crash occurred just north of the 23-mile marker when an SUV traveling in the opposite direction crossed over the double yellow lines and hit him head-on. Castro died shortly after the collision.
According to police, the driver of the SUV, a 40-year-old woman, had crossed the double solid yellow lines in an attempt to pull over on the opposite side of the road.
Important Driving Safety Tips
According to the Federal Highway Administration, in 2022 there were over 42,500 deaths due to motor vehicle crashes in the US.
While accidents happen, it is important to take care and drive cautiously in an effort to avoid causing or being involved in an accident. Car crashes can be devastating, whether occupants die or are severely injured, the aftermath of a car accident can affect the lives of those involved for years to come.
What are some steps drivers can take to stay safe on the road?
- Obey posted speed limits: speeding can reduce your reaction time, and increase the severity of accidents.
- Obey traffic signals: follow all traffic signals, including red lights and stop signs, to ensure the safety of all road users.
- Know the rules of the road: familiarize yourself with and adhere to all traffic laws and regulations to navigate safely and responsibly.
- Drive sober: never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Impaired driving significantly reduces your coordination and reaction time and increases the risk of accidents.
- Avoid distractions: stay focused on the road, avoid using your phone, eating, or engaging in any activity that can divert your attention while driving.
Legal Recourse Available To Families Who Lost Loved Ones In Car Accidents
Families who have lost loved ones in car accidents may have avenues for legal recourse. Depending on the circumstances of the accident, they may be able to file a wrongful death claim.
“Our hearts go out to the family who lost their loved one and soon-to-be father, Alvin “Kolu Boy” Godfrey Castro III,” says Brett Schreiber, a personal injury attorney who has represented families that have lost loved ones in a car accident, “I’ve seen firsthand the profound impact losses such as this one can have on families and communities. It is important that Castro’s family, and others facing similar situations, know that they may be eligible to file a claim and could consider contacting a personal injury attorney.”
Parties who may be held responsible may include:
- Negligent drivers: if another driver’s negligence or recklessness caused the accident, they could be held liable for the wrongful death.
- Employers: if the driver was operating a vehicle as part of their job, the employer might be held responsible under certain conditions.
- Vehicle manufacturers: if a defect in the vehicle contributed to the accident, the manufacturer could be held liable.
- Government entities: in cases where road conditions or faulty traffic signals contributed to the accident, a government entity could be held responsible.
- Service providers: if a mechanic or service provider failed to properly maintain or repair a vehicle, leading to the accident, they may be liable.
Families may seek compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Loss of future earnings
- Loss of companionship
- Emotional distress
- Medical expenses incurred prior to death
- And more
If you lost a loved one in a car accident, you may have legal recourse. To learn more about your options contact Singleton Schreiber today by calling (808) 582-8062 or emailing info@singletonschreiber.com.
