A two vehicle collision in the early morning hours last Friday on Pacific Coast Highway in Santa Monica involved texting while driving.
The accident happened in the 400 block of PCH at about 1:35 a.m. According to Santa Monica Police Department Sgt. Richard Lewis, Christopher Freeman, a 20-year-old Malibu resident, was northbound on PCH in the #1 lane. He was driving a BMW at in excess of 80 mph when he drifted into the #3 lane. Freeman's BMW slammed into a construction truck owned by Blois Construction Company. The construction truck driver was driving much slower while completing a sewer project in the area.
The employee sustained injuries to his head and neck. He was transported to a local hospital. The BMW driver also suffered injuries and was transported to a local hospital.
The BMW was totaled as a result of the crash.
The accident forced the Santa Monica Police Departement to temporarily close PCH.
After further investigation, officers concluded that Freeman was texting while driving. He was also suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol. Charges of felony driving under the influence are pending.
California's text messaging law is contained in Vehicle Code Section 23123.5, which states: "(a) A person shall not drive a motor vehicle while using an electronic wireless communications device to write, send, or read a text-based communication. …"
If you have been injured in a car accident involving a driver who was texting while driving, speak with a lawyer at our Santa Monica personal injury law firm to learn about your rights. Consultations are free.