On March 1, 2025, R&B singer Angie Stone tragically passed in an automobile crash on an Alabama interstate. On September 2nd, her family filed a wrongful death lawsuit seeking damages. The suit targets a trucking company, a truck manufacturer, and others involved.
According to the lawsuit, the crash occurred when the driver of the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van carrying Stone and her team lost control. The van proceeded to flip and roll over, which the passengers had initially survived. However, an 18-wheeler with a faulty safety system crashed into the van as Stone was trying to exit. It ejected her and pinned her underneath the van, where she died from her injuries.
The lawsuit alleges that the truck’s collision avoidance system did not work. It also claims that the truck driver wore headphones and did not properly brake before hitting the van at nearly 70 mph.
What Is Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death claims arise from instances where a negligent party’s wrongful act causes or contributes to another’s death. In most cases, this involves the breach of a duty of care, the obligation to avoid careless acts. This can stem from car accidents, fires, slips and falls, and even medical malpractice.
While laws vary by state, a wrongful death claim seeks to hold the responsible party accountable for their actions. It also aims to provide financial support for the surviving members of the estate. Depending on the case, the court may award punitive damages and economic damages. This may cover any medical bills, funeral costs, lost earnings, and even loss of companionship.
Children, surviving spouses, domestic partners, and grandchildren (if the children have died) can file wrongful death lawsuits. Note, you must complete this within the statute of limitations; otherwise, you may forfeit your right to file a claim.
Angie Stone’s children, Diamond Stone and Michael D’Angelo Archer, have filed a civil lawsuit for their mother’s wrongful death. While they are seeking retribution for the above, they also noted the pain and suffering inflicted. According to the filing, Angie consciously suffered while trapped under the van before she succumbed to her injuries. While dependent on the jurisdiction, most courts will award damages for the pain suffered by the deceased person.
While filed in Georgia, all states, including California, aim to protect the families of victims of wrongful deaths. Wrongful death attorneys in Los Angeles will work tirelessly to achieve justice under California law for the surviving family. Before you file a claim or work with an insurance company, it is wise to talk to a lawyer. They can help you understand your rights and advise on the best course of action to recover maximum compensation.
Case Study: Angie Stone Lawsuit
The circumstances behind Angie Stone’s passing are complex, with the lawsuit naming several defendants. Understanding this case may help advise other surviving family members filing a claim for a truck accident. Though it is always best to consult legal counsel for guidance on your specific case.
Van Driver
The lawsuit accuses Leethel Carter, the driver of Stone’s Sprinter van, of negligence. According to the filing, Carter lost control of the vehicle, which caused the initial crash. The claim also names the owner of the van, accused of improper training of Carter.
To successfully prove the case, the Plaintiffs will need to establish error on behalf of Carter. This means any reasonably careful driver would not have lost control of the vehicle.
As for the van owner and their company, there was likely a duty to train their drivers given their business. Carter may have been ill-trained by his employer, leading to additional employer liability in the wrongful death case.
Truck Driver
Finally, it accuses the CRST driver, Jared Wilkinson, of negligence. Reports indicate that Wilkinson listened to music at the time of the crash. The weather was clear, and the van was easy to see for a careful driver. This conclusion showed that Wilkinson was likely distracted, leading to a delay in applying the brakes.
Distracted driving is illegal and can result in personal injury and wrongful death claims. A car accident lawyer can help gather the evidence needed to successfully hold drivers accountable for their recklessness.
Manufacturer
In addition to the drivers, the lawsuit names truck manufacturer Daimler Truck and its safety system maker, Detroit Diesel. Allegedly, the truck’s collision avoidance system failed to detect the stationary van, contributing to the crash. The makers of the faulty Freightliner Cascadia did not warn drivers about system problems. This could have helped prevent the tragedy.
Manufacturers can face liability in cases like these if the Plaintiffs prove that they breached a duty of care. Stone’s estate will need to prove the companies knew of the defect and failed to act on it. They will additionally need to prove that the faulty system directly contributed to her passing. As manufacturer liability is difficult to prove, it is always advisable to consult an experienced wrongful death attorney.
Schedule a Free Consultation With the Best Wrongful Death Attorneys (Los Angeles)
High-profile cases like this can be an immense learning experience, educating victims on their rights. However, it is best to work with a personal injury or wrongful death lawyer in Los Angeles. They can give you a more accurate and tailored approach to your case.
If you or someone you love suffered injuries or passed in a car or truck accident, our Los Angeles wrongful death lawyers can help. John J. Perlstein is known as the best personal injury attorney in Los Angeles and has over 25 years of experience securing fair and just outcomes in these cases. Call (213) 583-5786 or fill out the form for a free consultation with one of the top Los Angeles wrongful death law firms.