Over the last two weeks in San Diego, traffic accidents have led to the death of four men, and now authorities have publicly identified them.
An accident in the Jamacha area claimed the lives of 48-year-old Michael Droegemeier and 32-year-old Lowell McCrea, dead. This tragic accident occurred just before 10:30 pm on Friday, February 7, 2025, when Droegemeier’s vehicle collided with at least one other car along the 3600 block of Willow Glen Drive. Officials confirmed that Droegemeier died at the scene, while McCrea, a passenger in Droegemeier’s vehicle, was taken to Sharp Memorial Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
A wrong-way collision in Santee led to the death of 32-year-old Deven Stewart. This accident also occurred on Friday, February 7, 2025, around 9:30 pm. Stewart was heading east on the westbound side of Mast Boulevard when he collided head-on with an SUV near Magnolia Avenue.
First responders transported Stewart to Sharp Memorial Hospital where he was pronounced dead.
On January 30, 2025, just before 4:30 am, 32-year-old Erick Morales lost control of his vehicle along Bancroft Drive in Spring Valley, near Mount Helix. His vehicle veered off the road and struck a tree, resulting in fatal injuries.
Understanding the Causes of Fatal Car Accidents
Each of these tragic incidents highlights how unpredictable and devastating car accidents can be. Car accidents can happen for a variety of reasons, but certain factors are more commonly associated with severe or fatal crashes, including:
- Speeding and reckless driving – excessive speed reduces reaction time and increases the severity of collisions
- Impaired driving – driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is a leading cause of fatal accidents
- Distracted driving – texting, using a phone, or engaging in other distractions can cause drivers to lose focus on the road
- Drowsy driving – fatigue can impair a driver’s ability to focus, react quickly, and make sound decisions, leading to dangerous accidents
- Poor road or weather conditions – slippery roads, low visibility, and poorly maintained roadways can contribute to accidents
Gerald Singleton, managing partner of Singleton Schreiber, emphasized the devastating impact of fatal crashes and the importance of seeking legal guidance:
“Losing a loved one in a car accident is an unimaginable tragedy. While no legal action can undo the loss and pain the deceased’s families experience, they deserve justice and financial security during such difficult times. Our firm is committed to helping victim’s families navigate the legal process, and fighting for them to receive the compensation and support they need to rebuild their lives after the loss of their loved one.”
Legal Recourse for Victims and Their Families
When a fatal accident occurs, victims and their families may have legal options to seek justice and compensation. This may include:
- Wrongful death claims – the families of victims who die in the accident may pursue a wrongful death claim to recover damages for things such as funeral expenses, lost income, emotional suffering, and more.
- Personal injury claims – if a victim survives the accident, but sustains injuries or property damage, they may file a personal injury claim to cover their damages.
In the aftermath of a fatal crash, determining liability is crucial for seeking justice and compensation. Several parties may be held responsible, including:
- Negligent drivers – if a driver’s reckless or impaired behavior caused the accident, they may be legally liable for damages
- Vehicle manufacturers – if a mechanical defect, such as brake failure or tire blowouts, played a role in the crash, the manufacturer may be held accountable
- Government entities – poorly maintained roads, missing signage, or dangerous intersections can contribute to accidents, making local or state agencies potentially responsible
- Commercial companies – in cases involving commercial vehicles, the employer may be liable for improper training, vehicle maintenance, failures, or pushing drivers beyond safe working limits
If you have lost a loved one or been injured in a car accident, contact the Singleton Schreiber team today to learn more about your options. Call us at (619) 771-3473 or email us at info@singletonschreiber.com to schedule your free consultation.
