Long Co., GA (July 1, 2024) – One person has lost their life as a result of a fatal accident that occurred in Long County on Saturday, June 29.
Official reports indicate that a motorcycle and a pickup truck collided on Highway 196 in the area near Marcus Nobles Road. The Georgia State Patrol confirmed that the pickup truck was fleeing the police at the time of the accident. The motorcyclist, identified as 62-year-old Michael Raftice Joseph, was severely injured. Despite medical efforts, he was pronounced deceased at the scene. A passenger on the motorcycle, identified as 43-year-old Lea Berrones, was severely hurt. She was rushed to an area hospital for emergency care. The Georgia State Patrol is currently investigating the accident.
We offer our sympathies to the family of Michael Raftice Joseph.
Fatal Auto Accidents in Georgia
In 2021, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported approximately 42,915 traffic fatalities in the United States. This marked a 10.5% increase from the previous year, representing the highest annual percentage rise in the history of the Fatality Analysis Reporting System. The primary causes of fatal crashes in 2021 were:
- Impaired Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of drugs or alcohol can severely impair a driver’s ability to drive responsibly. Impairment affects judgment, coordination, and reaction time, often resulting in devastating car accidents.
- Speeding: Driving above the designated speed limit significantly increases the likelihood of causing severe accidents. Excessive speed raises the impact force during collisions, leading to fatal injuries.
- Distracted Driving: Failure to focus on the road ahead can cause drivers to overlook other vehicles or pedestrians nearby, increasing the risk of crashes. Distractions like texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting the radio contribute to accidents.
If you have lost a family member in a fatal crash, it is essential to seek legal recourse. A Georgia wrongful death lawyer can assist you in initiating a claim against the party responsible for the tragedy, ensuring you receive the necessary financial support during this challenging period.
At Ted Greve & Associates, we are committed to providing compassionate and assertive legal representation for families coping with the loss of a loved one in a car accident. We recognize the emotional turmoil linked to such tragic events, and our objective is to ease financial burdens by advocating for full and fair compensation on your behalf. Our skilled team of wrongful death attorneys is dedicated to guiding you toward peace of mind and closure as you navigate through this difficult journey. We understand that each case is unique, and we take the time to listen to your story, gather evidence, and build a strong case to support your claims.
Our firm has extensive experience dealing with insurance companies and negotiating the best possible settlements for our clients. We are not afraid to take your case to trial, if necessary, to ensure that justice is served. We strive to provide personalized attention and support throughout the entire legal process, keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.
If you have been impacted by the loss of a loved one due to a negligent driver, we encourage you to contact us at (800) 693-7833 for a complimentary case evaluation. Allow us to support you in seeking justice and holding those accountable for their actions.
