Latest news with #distracteddriving
CBS News
3 days ago
- Automotive
- CBS News
Former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist receives probation for crash that killed pedestrian
The former guitarist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers will not serve jail time for a 2024 vehicle crash that killed a man walking in an crosswalk in Alhambra, California. Josh Klinghoffer, 45, pleaded no contest to misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence in Alhambra court on Wednesday and was sentenced to one year of informal probation and 60 days of community labor. He also received 12 months probation, as well as a required driver safety class and court-ordered restitution. Alhambra is located just west of Los Angeles. A lawsuit filed by the family of 47-year-old Israel Sanchez accuses Klinghoffer of distracted driving when Sanchez was killed. Video released by attorneys representing the victim's family shows the March 18, 2024, crash in which the driver gets out of the vehicle and stays with the victim before police arrive. The lawsuit does not accuse Klinghoffer of hit-and-run, as the video clearly shows a driver tending to the person hit, but alleges that Klinghoffer was not paying attention while driving. An attorney for Klinghoffer called it a "tragic accident" and said he fully cooperated with investigators. "This was a tragic accident," attorney Andrew Brettler said in an earlier statement. "After the car struck the pedestrian, Josh immediately pulled over, stopped the vehicle, called 911, and waited until police and the ambulance arrived." According to the lawsuit, Klinghoffer was driving a black 2022 GMC Yukon with no license plates. A still captured from the video moments before the crash shows the driver on a cellphone or some other device, the lawsuit alleges. The lawsuit states "He (Sanchez) stopped at the corner and made sure the oncoming traffic had cleared and his path was safe … (he) took eight full strides within the marked crosswalk" just before being struck and killed. Sanchez suffered blunt force trauma and died from his injuries a little less than three hours later at the hospital. The lawsuit seeks an unspecified amount in damages. Klinghoffer played guitar with the Red Hot Chili Peppers from 2009 to 2019, and has also played with Pearl Jam and Jane's Addiction. Guitarist Josh Klinghoffer performs with Jane's Addiction at The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas on March 12, 2023, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Getty Images
CBS News
3 days ago
- Automotive
- CBS News
Former Red Hot Chili Peppers guitarist receives probation for fatal crash that killed pedestrian
The former guitarist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers will not serve jail time for a 2024 vehicle crash that killed a man walking in an crosswalk in Alhambra, California. Josh Klinghoffer, 45, pleaded no contest to misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence in Alhambra court on Wednesday and was sentenced to one year of informal probation and 60 days of community labor. He also received 12 months probation, as well as a required driver safety class and court-ordered restitution. Alhambra is located just west of Los Angeles. A lawsuit filed by the family of 47-year-old Israel Sanchez accuses Klinghoffer of distracted driving when Sanchez was killed. Video released by attorneys representing the victim's family shows the March 18, 2024, crash in which the driver gets out of the vehicle and stays with the victim before police arrive. The lawsuit does not accuse Klinghoffer of hit-and-run, as the video clearly shows a driver tending to the person hit, but alleges that Klinghoffer was not paying attention while driving. An attorney for Klinghoffer called it a "tragic accident" and said he fully cooperated with investigators. "This was a tragic accident," attorney Andrew Brettler said in an earlier statement. "After the car struck the pedestrian, Josh immediately pulled over, stopped the vehicle, called 911, and waited until police and the ambulance arrived." According to the lawsuit, Klinghoffer was driving a black 2022 GMC Yukon with no license plates. A still captured from the video moments before the crash shows the driver on a cellphone or some other device, the lawsuit alleges. The lawsuit states "He (Sanchez) stopped at the corner and made sure the oncoming traffic had cleared and his path was safe … (he) took eight full strides within the marked crosswalk" just before being struck and killed. Sanchez suffered blunt force trauma and died from his injuries a little less than three hours later at the hospital. The lawsuit seeks an unspecified amount in damages. Klinghoffer played guitar with the Red Hot Chili Peppers from 2009 to 2019, and has also played with Pearl Jam and Jane's Addiction. Guitarist Josh Klinghoffer performs with Jane's Addiction at The Chelsea at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas on March 12, 2023, in Las Vegas, Nevada. Getty Images
CBS News
3 days ago
- Entertainment
- CBS News
Former Red Hot Chili Pepper guitarist gets probation for accidental pedestrian death
The former guitarist for the Red Hot Chili Peppers will not receive jail time for a 2024 vehicle crash that killed a man walking in an Alhambra crosswalk. Josh Klinghoffer, 45, pleaded no contest to misdemeanor vehicular manslaughter without gross negligence in Alhambra court on Wednesday and was sentenced to one year of informal probation and 60 days of community labor. He also received 12 months probation, as well as a required driver safety class and court-ordered restitution. A lawsuit filed by the family of 47-year-old Israel Sanchez accuses Klinghoffer of distracted driving when Sanchez was killed. Video released by attorneys representing the victim's family shows the March 18 crash in which the driver gets out of the vehicle and stays with the person struck before police arrive. The lawsuit does not accuse Klinghoffer of hit-and-run, as the video clearly shows a driver tending to the person hit, but alleges that Klinghoffer was not paying attention. An attorney for Klinghoffer called it a "tragic accident" and said he fully cooperated with investigators. "This was a tragic accident," attorney Andrew Brettler said in an earlier statement. "After the car struck the pedestrian, Josh immediately pulled over, stopped the vehicle, called 911, and waited until police and the ambulance arrived." According to the lawsuit, Klinghoffer was driving a black 2022 GMC Yukon with no license plates, and a still captured from the video moments before the crash shows the driver on a cellphone or some other device. The lawsuit states "He (Sanchez) stopped at the corner and made sure the oncoming traffic had cleared and his path was safe … (he) took eight full strides within the marked crosswalk" just before being struck and killed. Sanchez suffered blunt force trauma and died from his injuries a little less than three hours later at the hospital. The lawsuit seeks an unspecified amount in damages. Klinghoffer played guitar with the Red Hot Chili Peppers from 2009 to 2019 and has also played with Pearl Jam and Jane's Addiction.
Associated Press
5 days ago
- Automotive
- Associated Press
Northern Virginia Car Accident Lawyer Jennifer Porter on the Most Common Causes of Car Collisions
Car accidents are a daily occurrence in Northern Virginia, often leaving behind a trail of injuries, emotional strain, and financial setbacks. For those seeking insight into the most common causes of such collisions, Northern Virginia car accident lawyer Jennifer Porter ( ) offers valuable clarity through a detailed discussion on preventable accident factors. At Jennifer Porter Law, PLLC, identifying the behaviors and conditions that lead to collisions is a foundational step in supporting accident victims throughout their legal journey. Speeding, distracted driving, and fatigue are among the top contributors to crashes in the region. Northern Virginia car accident lawyer Jennifer Porter emphasizes the role that driver choices play in the majority of incidents. Speeding remains a primary factor, accounting for nearly 20% of car accidents in Virginia in 2023. Not only does excessive speed reduce reaction time, but it also increases the severity of crashes. Reckless driving, which includes speeding over 80 mph or more than 20 mph above the posted limit, is classified as a criminal offense in Virginia and carries penalties including fines, license suspension, or even jail time. Distracted driving follows closely behind as a leading cause of roadway accidents. According to Jennifer Porter, many crashes could be avoided if drivers eliminated distractions such as cell phone use, eating, or adjusting in-vehicle controls. As a Northern Virginia car accident lawyer, Porter underscores the importance of staying focused while behind the wheel. In 2023, nearly 17% of crashes in the state were attributed to distracted driving alone. These incidents often involve multiple forms of distraction, combining visual, manual, and cognitive impairments that prevent timely responses to road hazards. 'Preventing accidents begins with recognizing the common mistakes and actions that often lead to them,' states Jennifer Porter. 'Many crashes happen because of avoidable human errors or unsafe driving habits.' Fatigued driving presents another serious risk on Virginia roads. Research shows that drivers awake for 18 hours suffer similar impairments to those under the influence of alcohol. This condition reduces alertness, impairs judgment, and can lead to microsleeps—brief moments where the driver loses consciousness entirely. Jennifer Porter notes that, despite its seriousness, fatigue is frequently overlooked as a factor in crash investigations. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol remains one of the deadliest causes of traffic accidents. Virginia recorded nearly 7,000 alcohol-related crashes in 2023, with 293 resulting in fatalities. Impaired driving affects coordination, delays reaction times, and hinders judgment, making it extremely dangerous. Legal limits on blood alcohol concentration, combined with the possibility of criminal and civil liability, demonstrate how seriously the state treats DUI offenses. Another frequent source of collisions is tailgating or following too closely. This behavior was linked to almost 20% of accidents statewide in 2023, particularly rear-end collisions. Northern Virginia car accident lawyer Jennifer Porter points out that maintaining a safe distance is both a safety measure and a legal requirement. Failure to do so can lead to citations and serve as evidence of negligence in civil litigation. Intersections and merging lanes also pose high-risk environments. Failure to yield and improper turns are common causes of crashes in these areas. These errors often result from drivers misjudging gaps in traffic or ignoring right-of-way rules, especially during left turns or at pedestrian crosswalks. Under Virginia Code § 46.2-821, such violations may lead to fines and liability in the event of an accident. External conditions also contribute to many accidents. Poorly maintained roads, inclement weather, and fading lane markings add to the danger. In 2023, over 900 accidents were attributed to hazardous road conditions in Virginia. Potholes, ice, and inadequate signage can exacerbate already risky situations. Liability for these crashes may rest with government agencies if it can be proven that a known hazard was not properly addressed. Vehicle defects and mechanical failures, such as brake malfunctions, steering issues, or tire blowouts, also present dangers that are sometimes beyond a driver's control. Jennifer Porter outlines that when such defects are involved, manufacturers, repair shops, or even the vehicle owner could be held accountable, depending on the circumstances. Identifying the responsible party is a necessary step in securing justice for victims. Virginia's contributory negligence rule poses additional challenges for accident victims seeking compensation. Under this rule, if a victim is found even 1% at fault, they may be barred from recovering any damages. Jennifer Porter advises that proving the other party's complete liability is critical in these cases. Evidence such as police reports, photographs, and witness statements plays a vital role in strengthening a legal claim. Victims of car collisions may be entitled to compensation for medical bills, lost income, and emotional distress. Time limits apply, with Virginia's statute of limitations generally allowing two years to file a claim. However, this timeline may vary in cases involving government agencies. Working with a knowledgeable attorney is essential for avoiding missed deadlines and legal missteps. Holding negligent parties accountable can offer both financial relief and peace of mind to those affected. With the support of Jennifer Porter Law, PLLC, car accident victims in Northern Virginia can pursue claims with greater confidence. As a dedicated Northern Virginia car accident lawyer, Jennifer Porter is committed to advocating for individuals who have been harmed due to the careless actions of others. Victims navigating the aftermath of a collision often feel overwhelmed. Having legal guidance can make the claims process more manageable and increase the chances of a fair resolution. Those who have suffered due to another driver's negligence are encouraged to take legal action promptly to preserve their rights and seek recovery. About Jennifer Porter Law, PLLC: Jennifer Porter Law, PLLC serves clients across Northern Virginia, focusing on personal injury cases including car accidents, wrongful death, and related claims. The firm is committed to helping individuals navigate the legal system and seek the compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses. Embeds: Youtube Video: GMB: Email and website Email: [email protected] Website: Media Contact Company Name: Jennifer Porter Law, PLLC Contact Person: Jennifer Porter Email: Send Email Phone: (571) 532-9070 Address:8001 Braddock Rd Suite 102 City: Springfield State: Virginia 22151 Country: United States Website: Press Release Distributed by To view the original version on ABNewswire visit: Northern Virginia Car Accident Lawyer Jennifer Porter on the Most Common Causes of Car Collisions
CTV News
6 days ago
- General
- CTV News
Driver using phone crashes while leaving ferry: Nanaimo RCMP
A car that crashed at Duke Point ferry terminal is seen in this image handed out by the Nanaimo RCMP. A driver learned a valuable lesson about getting distracted behind the wheel over the weekend, according to the Nanaimo RCMP. While driving off a ferry at Duke Point terminal around 5:30 p.m. Sunday, a black Acura crashed directly into a support column on the offramp. The vehicle sustained significant damage, the airbags went off, and it had to be towed away, Const. Gary O'Brien told CTV News. The driver was taken to hospital with minor injuries. The driver admitted she was on her phone looking at Google Maps, police said. She was issued a ticket for using an electronic device while driving. As a result, the 5:45 p.m. sailing from Nanaimo to Tsawwassen was delayed 36 minutes that day. 'It just goes to the importance of not being on your phone. Traffic was delayed, I mean, this is tight quarters,' O'Brien said. Drivers are 3.6 times more likely to crash if they're looking at a phone, according to ICBC.
