Brandy's car accident

dfluff62, Los Angeles, Ca — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 01:22:06 GMT

Brandy's MVA is naother instance of an spoiled, self indulgent ego living life large and not appropriately cognizant of the ramifications of her actions as the rest of us have to be. Total lack of responsibility. How can a little 90 lb thing even handle a monsterous sized SUV?

Brandy's car accident

Sonya, Vermont — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 03:50:36 GMT

Accidents are called that for a reason. I'm sure she didn't have a mind set to hit the other car. I'm sure she is just like others who have had accidents due to their careless attitude. The only reason she is being looked at in the light is because of her career.. would you be saying she is spoiled rotten if it had been just the casual "90" pound Jane Doe... I don't think so.

Brandy's car accident

juliejones wabashindiana — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 06:40:26 GMT

police are saying brandy needs to be charged only becasue of who she is she didnt head out the day to kill anyone

Brandy's car accident

Gigi — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 06:51:58 GMT

Wow, dfluff62. Dislike celebrities, do you? This sounds like an accident that unfortunately occurs everyday. Being a celebrity and weighing 90 lbs has nothing to do with. I agree with Sonya.

Brandy's car accident

Kim, Seattle, WA — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 07:02:26 GMT

Perhaps she was playing this game, where she was looking at another driver, and was looking for their phone? Unfortunately, our senses are distracted by many things while behind the wheel. I almost rear ended someone once because I was distracted, simply because I checked my rearview mirror a second too long. My prayers are with everyone involved in this accident. It really could be any of us in this situation.

Brandy's car accident

Timothy Cagle — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 08:24:37 GMT

To dfluff62: For God's sake, have you never heard of power steering, power brakes, and adjustable seats?. Almost any adult can drive almost any modern vehicle safely, from a Geo Metro to a Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet. Physical size, and strength mean very little, unless you are very small (or a child), and that is only a question of reach, not ability. I have had a similar accident, (thankfully no one was hurt) and I know how fast, and unexpected they can be. Someone pulled into my lane taking my safety space, and while I was applying the brakes to get more space the 15 cars ahead of him stopped in the middle of the freeway to look at a police officer giving someone a ticket. There was nothing I could do, with no safety space there was no time to stop. Had the sun gotton into my eyes, or had I been distracted at that moment, the accident could easily have turned out much worse. I could have been in Brandy's position right now. Of course, no one would be talking about my accident because I am a nobody. Brandy is a public figure, and as such gets way too much attention from people who need to get a life. My sympathy is with Brandy, and all the other people who were caught up in this tragic incedent.

Brandy's car accident

Zeke, Texas — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 10:27:12 GMT

I see many small women driving big honking SUVs and really don't know how to handle them. And often times, someone driving those size of vehicles, just gotta be yakking away on a cell.

Brandy's car accident

Rowan, Lehigh Valley PA — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 14:18:21 GMT

Okay, so Brandy caused an accident because for some reason she wasn't in control of her vehicle. BUT the vehicle that crashed into the same car she crashed into is responsible for the demise of the driver. Had THAT driver been paying attention, it would not have it the car, causing the death of the driver. Brandy is considered 'deep pockets' - she's a celebrity of sorts, so it's going to be uglier for her than the driver of the car who actually caused the fatality. You don't see that anywhere.

Brandy's car accident

Angie, OH — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 14:30:48 GMT

This has just been a very unfortunate accident which could have been caused by anybody for any reason. Jail time for her....not necessarily due to the circumstances but heavy fines, losing driving privledges, helping out the family....yes and she can afford to help them out very, very much and for a very long time. Not everybody who causes an accident like this is sent to jail and she shouldn't be either, and no not because she is a celebrity but because she is human and made a mistake. It's not like she did this on purpose.

Brandy's car accident

Stephon, Hollywood Florida — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:04:14 GMT

In reference to sonya's comment. If it was an average 90lb jane doe then it probably would be an accident, but when you have celebrities, they dont consider themself average. They think they live above the law and sadly sometimes they do. But in this case she felt invincable and someone had to pay the price.

Brandy's car accident

Shannon, Monterey CA — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:24:00 GMT

Everybody gets into car crashes...it may have been brandys fault but the way the driver handled its actions was on them... i mean the driver didnt need to hit the center divide and what about the other driver that struck her? Brandy may have been at fault but I cant help but think of the other drivers were also. Its just a bad situation for everybody and it is very unfortunate. Everybody needs to stop making a big deal of this Im sure she is going through enough as it is, let her be for god sakes.

Brandy's car accident

Darrel In Pa — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:38:51 GMT

Is Brandy a licensed driver? Did she take all of the tests necessary to acquire her license? If so, then she is (or should be) well aware of the responsibilities she has as a licensed driver. She is also a citizen, and as such, is subject to the laws of the state where she was. She should be subject to the same detailed scrutiny as we all should be in a case such as this, causing the death of another person, unless you suggest that some people be treated differently than others. I say, let her take her lumps, just like any other person would. If she is found to be negligent in her actions, or it is found that she was careless in the manner she chose to drive, then she should be prosecuted, just like the rest of us might be. For far too long, "celebrity" has offered the opportunity for various "mishaps" to be forgiven. I call BS on that, and hope that the proper authorities investigate completely, and do the right thing at the end of that investigation, whether it be prosecution or not.

Brandy's car accident

Darrel In Pa — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:51:25 GMT

And while we're at it, was she taken for drug and alcohol tests, like any of us would be? If not, I smell a cover-up. It is a shame that someone died in this "accident". It is obvious that the deceased woman's car was hit by Brandy's vehicle at a high rate of speed. Did she try to brake? If not, why not? There is only one excuse that would pass muster: That the brake lights on the car that Brandy hit were not working. Brandy was responsible for keeping a safe distance between her vehicle and the vehicle in front of her. If I remember right, the driver who hits another driver from behind is the one who is responsible for the accident, in almost any circumstance. I feel sorry for all those involved, especially the woman who died. Common decency would result in the person who caused all this to take responsibility.

Brandy's car accident

Ardith G — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:52:06 GMT

A lot of people are charged for causing fatal accidents. The only difference is that when no celebrity is involved it doesn't make the news. She should be treated like anyone else. It's likely that she wouldn't even serve jail time if convicted - probably just probation and community service, maybe a fine.

Brandy's car accident

Jenifer. Ohio — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 15:52:53 GMT

I was in an accident; it was my fault. Thankfully, no one died or was injured, but if you ask me what happened, I can't tell you. I thought I was paying attention, that I was fully focused on the road. There was no phone to my ear, no mascara wand in my hand, no coffee to my lips. The point is this: no one, not even the affluent, are exempt from mistakes. We should try to show empathy for all parties involved directly & indirectly. As ubiquitous as SUVs are in the USA, this accident could have been caused by anyone. And in this particular situation where a life was lost, we should realize that the party responsible will be held rightfully accountable despite their social distinction.

Brandy's car accident

Jennifer, North Liberty, IA — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 16:11:13 GMT

How can a car stopped in traffic be at fault when another driver hits them? The person who started the chain is usually at fault, though there are exceptions (read Timothy's post above). You can't say that the other person is at fault for being in your way, or for not stopping their car from hitting others. Even if your foot is firmly pressing on the break, your car will slide when hit from behind at even moderate speeds. I agree that this particular incident is getting blown way out of porportion because Brandy is a celebrity, but hopefully all the publicity will serve to remind people that this can happen to anyone. You, as a driver, are not just responsible for the saftey of yourself and those in your car, but also for others in other vehicles. I find it interesting that this comes at a time where we have several insurance company commercials (I'm mainly thinking of Allstate) which point out the dangers of distracted driving.

Brandy's car accident

Sabrina, Washington DC — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 16:49:08 GMT

In response to Stephon; how do you know what Brandy was thinking at the moment of the accident? Why are you lumping her in with the "bad" category of celebrities? The vast majority of celebrities are not like the Paris Hiltons and Britney Spears' of the world; they live their lives in (relative) anonymity when they aren't doing something in the spotlight. Brandy is like that; she's never caused major scandals or been involved in one that I know of, and aside from what she's done in the past, she has lived very low-profile for a "celebrity". I have to agree with Rowan above; the driver who hit the car Brandy hit last was likely the cause of the driver's death, not Brandy herself. Did she spark the event that caused it? Certainly; but that doesn't excuse the other drivers that hit the car either. If we're going to place blame, we need to put it on ALL the drivers who hit that poor woman's car, not just Brandy.

Brandy's car accident

Beth, Magnolia, NJ — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 16:54:38 GMT

She does not deserve to go to jail, in my opinion. It was an accident, we all take our lives into our hands when we get into a vehicle. She should have to pay the appropriate fines and perhaps lose her license for a period of time (she should NOT receive any special treatment), but jail time, no, everyone in this country gets so carried away with things. It is a terrible tragedy and I understand people not wanting her to get special attention but, the constant attention being spent on this is giving her special treatment. People die in automobile accidents everyday and I bet most of you do not pay those stories any attention.

Brandy's car accident

Cindy, South Bend, IN — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 16:57:18 GMT

I've seen those kinds of things happen in LA far too often. You're barreling along, keeping up with traffic, when all of a sudden - you have to come to a complete stop. Even a good driver has trouble with that. Crazy.

Brandy's car accident

Buddy, Rockville MD — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 17:17:26 GMT

It's pretty pathetic that some of those people get away with a lot because they are a celebrity or a pro sports player. If they were not paying attention to what they were doing, then they need to be charged the same way as if a regular person would have been charged, the free rides those people get should come to and end.

Brandy's car accident

Gael Fashingbauer Cooper — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 18:13:54 GMT

Apparently, Bam Margera has taken distracted driving to a really disturbing extreme. http://www.radaronline.com/exclusives/2007/01/mtv-stars-drivers-education.php (Consider this a content warning.)

Brandy's car accident

carl in houston, tx — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 18:54:21 GMT

When you hit a stopped car from behind, 99.9% of the time, it is YOUR fault. It really is that simple.

Brandy's car accident

Sean, Dallas, TX — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 18:54:42 GMT

I think that everyone who has posted so far is under the assumption that Brandy intentionally caused the crash (either directly or indirectly as in being distracted). Has anyone paused to think that there may have been a problem with the brakes on her vehicle. Until the 'black box' is evaluated, this cannot be ruled out.

Brandy's car accident

CG, los angeles CA — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 19:57:04 GMT

I live in LA and drive on the 405 all the time. It is one of the busiest and most dangerous highways in America. This type of accident could have easily happened to anyone including the driver whose life was unfortunately taken. Accidents like this happen everyday in Los Angeles. No one is a perfect driver 100% of the time. Think of how many near accidents you have almost caused or avoided. How many times are you distracted by your radio or maybe you just turned away a split second too long. Brandi was not under the influence at time. Think about how many times you hear about stars like Halle Berry, Nicole Richie, Mel Gibson, Lindsay Lohan, or Paris Hilton driving under the influence. These are the people who should have their license suspended, pay fines, and serve jail time not Brandi. She as well as the victims family will have to live with this the rest of their lives. It is an unfortunate event. No matter how much you think you can control a siuation bad things will happen to you in your lifetime and if they haven't just keep living.

Brandy's car accident

Dave S. — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 20:04:34 GMT

I'm surprised no one is mentioning the fact or expressing astonishment at the fact it took weeks for this to become public knowledge, and why did the CHP drag their feet in getting Brandy charged - you an I would have been charged in a heartbeat. It's a shame someone was killed needlessly, but it troubles me more that it DOES appear celebs (and I use that term VERY loosely with Brandy) do get some preferential treatment, and their scuzbag lawyers will do ANYTHING to arrange to get their client off - makes me sick!

Brandy's car accident

Joe — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 20:20:38 GMT

This is a case for the courts to judge and not the public. We have due process that works in a democracy. Let the Lawyers and Judges do their jobs

Brandy's car accident

Cassandra Daniels, Mount Pocono, Pennsylvania — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 20:37:08 GMT

I am so sorry to hear about this dreadful accident. It saddens me that someones mother, daughter,sister,cousin and so on is gone. I to have had an accident where i hit someone from the back, but i was slidding down an icey snowy hill and tapped the car i hit to where the damage was minimal on both cars, my question and concern is how fast was brandy going to where her car hit another and then into a divider, thats alot of distraction. About a month ago i was in traffic were it was at a standstill and my van was the last to approach the traffic and in my rear view mirror i could see another suv comming up behind me fast. this SUV missed hitting me by maybe a half o foot and had to swerve into the shoulder to avoid hitting me. I am angry at this whole thing because these stars never really pay for their actions and I am sure that this will be another sweeper case

Brandy's car accident

LMJ, Simi Valley, CA — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 20:46:35 GMT

This stretch of freeway is notorious for stopped traffic. You must be hypervigilent through this half-mile part of the 405, it's like an obstacle course. There's countless people cutting in front of you at the last second because they don't feel like waiting in a mile-long line. This is a major freeway interchange with two lanes at a standstill on the right, and people trying to go 80 mph on the left. It's been such a problem that they've recently put up a HUGE yellow sign warning drivers of stopped vehicles and are trying to improve the interchange itself. I wasn't surprised when I saw where the accident occured, it could've been anyone.

Brandy's car accident

Terrible Accident — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 21:20:01 GMT

It's amazing we're even discussing this. The only reason we are is because she's a celebrity. Accidents happen everday across the country and they are not plastered across the news pages for everyone to see. They are not discussed in forums or on message boards. Both sides to this story could be correct, but we'll never know for sure. Brandy could be at fault for being a distracted driver and nothing more. Or Brandy could be at fault for being an 'above-the-law' celebrity and for being a distracted driver. Who knows what the real truth is and, honestly, who cares? I feel terrible for the family of the deceased and wish them all the best in dealing with their grief. Let the LA police and persons and witnesses involved in the accident figure it all out. Any comments and opinions we post here are nothing more than mere speculation and down-right ignorant for us to do so.

Brandy's car accident

Harold Browning, Quincy, IL — Tue, 30 Jan 2007 21:37:47 GMT

Rowan's comment makes no sense. Of course it was the fault of the driver that struck the car from behind, not the driver that struck it after it was shoved into the center divider. That car may have dealt the blow that killed the person, but that was after the initial collision. If it hadn't been for Brandy, the car wouldn't have been in that situation. It is definitely Brandy's fault.

Brandy's car accident

Richard V. Chatsworth, CA — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 00:07:55 GMT

It is unbelievable to me that some people can judge without knowing all the facts....and that racism and anti-celebrity bias is so transparent in these glib, thoughtless comments. That section of the 405 freeway has more accidents than any other stretch of freeway in SoCal....it is a steep downhill grade, and the two right lanes are always congested. Drivers tend to wait until the last minute to merge into those lanes, often stopping completely in high speed traffic. This kind of accident is a daily occurance there. It could easily have been the fault of an impatient driver who stopped to merge and is completely oblivious to the tragedy they caused. Everytime I drive down that section of freeway I tense up, waiting for just such an occurance! Wait for the facts....

Brandy's car accident

Mike Hamilton, Canada — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 00:26:59 GMT

Why is it never anyone's fault? If you swing a hammer in a crowd and hit someone, you will be charged, but if you propell a 3000 lb car carelessly down the road, it is an accident? The stopped cars have some responsibility here as well, if they had left a proper space cushon between them and the car in front of them, they would not be pushed into it if someone rear-ended them. It seems that far too many people have too little respect for the complexities of driving.

Brandy's car accident

Child of God — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 04:26:35 GMT

My heart goes out to all involved because this could happen to anyone. We need to stop judging and pray for what has happened, place yourself or your family here in the picture. Now what do you see!!!!!

Brandy's car accident

Barbara, Oregon — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 16:40:57 GMT

I just read on MSNBC that the deceased driver's family is suing Brandy for $50 million. Grief makes people react in vastily different ways, but how quickly tears and anger turned into dollar signs. Would that have happened if she wasn't a celebrity?

Brandy's car accident

Robin, Florida — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 16:46:23 GMT

It's unfortunate that someone had to die in this terrible accident. However, it was only an accident. Brandy did not intentionally mean for an innocent life to be taken. This is the reality all drivers face when they operate a car or another vehicle. What is ridiculous on this blog is that the responsibility for causing this accident has been questioned. According to a new article Brandy was driving her Land Rover on Interstate 405 on December 30 when traffic slowed and her vehicle struck the back of a Honda driven by Awatef Aboudihaj. The Honda then hit another vehicle, slid sideways into the center divider and was then hit by another vehicle. I'm sorry but Brandy was the catalyst in a horrible chain reaction. And, if people think that the deceased woman should have been able to stop the momentum of the crash then they should have to take a course in physics to retain a driver's license!

Brandy's car accident

Vern, Sunnyvale — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 17:46:24 GMT

What happened to all involved is tragic, it was an ACCIDENT. If you read above, from people that drive that streach of the 405 freeway, it happened in a bad spot that has always been known to be problematic. Just driving in that area period is a zoo, you get no common driver courtesy. We as people need to pull our heads out of our butts and get off the judgement wagon. This could and can happen to any one of us that drive, we have all had moments when we have been distracted and done something that could have caused an accident. To all of you people that would judge without knowing all of the facts and just being judgemental in general, may God bless you and keep you on your ride home tonight in traffic.

Brandy's car accident

Wind Schenkenberg, Newport news, VA — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 18:04:04 GMT

thats sad how people are blaming brandy on all of this it was an "accident" she didnt mean it ...people these days over react on things a way bit too much especially when youre famous

Brandy's car accident

wind schenkenberg, Newport news, VA — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 18:05:39 GMT

dang...all of this reminds me of when Lisa Lopes from TLC died in 2002 sad isnt it

Brandy's car accident

Richard. N — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 19:36:35 GMT

Suing Brandy for 50m, now that is greedy!!..What if the accident was ther other way round, will the victim's family got 50m to pay too?

Brandy's car accident

Larry-Kissimmee fl. — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 20:17:09 GMT

The bottom line. She caused the accident. She set the accident in motion. She did not leave enough space between her and the other car in front, even in slow traffic to come to a full stop. She must be charged accordingly....Get a slap on the wrist and unintentionally killing someone. OH NO.

Brandy's car accident

Laurie, Lomita, CA — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 21:17:44 GMT

I live in the LA area and I know the San Diego Freeway all too well. When one is coming up over the hill, it's a bit steep and most often than not, there are stopped vehicles due to a freeway change so I myself will never, EVER be doing the speed limit of 65 mph. Everyone needs to slow down AND pay attention to what's up ahead that you can't always see. This is going to take awhile to investigate. Let the police do their job. Brandy caused an accident - yes, that's a given but she didn't do it intentionally. It's unfortunate that's the way it happened. Because of our justice system, she has to be held accountable for her actions.

Brandy's car accident

Sonia Fields, Houston Texas — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 21:28:14 GMT

Brandy seems to be a very sweet and compassionate individual. She should not unfairly charged because of her high profile status. There are accidents daily equal to the one she was involved in, and no one is charged. It would be very sad if Brandy is taken advantage of because shes a public figure. It is horrible that someone lost their life, but they should not take another mother(Brandy) away from her child, as it would only be another tradgedy. Please don't make a example out of a good person. Yes,I feel that out of the goodness of her heart she should absorb all burial cost, and be obligated to contribute a generous dollar ammount to the future of the now motherless child. In no way should the entire Aboudihaj family be supported by Brandy Norwood.

Brandy's car accident

Sal — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 22:51:22 GMT

I don't think anyone is saying she should get a slap on the wrist. Most of these cases (for a non-celebrity, anyway)usually result in probation and community service. There was no malice, there were no drugs or alcohol involved. It was simply a case of not paying attention. Speaking of celebrity injustice, do you think that if Brandy were an average Joe making $50,000 a year she would be sued by the parents for $50 mil?

Brandy's car accident

Jennifer Isadore Houston, TX — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 23:07:52 GMT

I have to say 50m seems like an awful lot of money. I can't imagine that if this was not a celebrities fault that the family would be asking for so much money. It is awful that this mother died and there needs to be compensation but 50m dollars? And just for the record no where have I read anything about Brandy saying that she was not responsible. So for all of you complaining about fault remember that nothing has been decided as of yet. So quit your speculation. After a verdict is given then you can gripe all you want.

Brandy's car accident

Lisa So. Cal. — Wed, 31 Jan 2007 23:46:11 GMT

What a horrible catastrophy for the families to have to endure (especially the family that lost their loved one) I think about - what if I were in Brandy's place? I can only imagine the private hellish nightmare she will endure because of her carelessness...ultimately, due process will take it's course and the courts will decide the penalty.

Brandy's car accident

I Epstein Cherry Hill NJ — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 02:02:57 GMT

#1 What ever happened to "Defensive Driving"? Why weren't the OTHER drivers looking out around them? I mean, maybe cause I am from Jersey, and have seen the California drivers from LA to San Diego, (OY VEY) but seriously, you really need to be aware of ALL of the surroundings to avoid accidents. I feel bad for Brandi because if my memory serves correctly, years back, before she had her baby, she was in another sort of accident. I dont think she was at fault tho, anyway, she is a sincere celebrity and does not deserve the scrutiny that she is under right now, my prayers are with her and the family of the passed.

Brandy's car accident

Daysha Camden, NJ — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 05:33:28 GMT

I don't feel as thought Brandy's celebrity status should have anything to do with the crime at hand. The point is, whether she is famous or the average Joe Smoe she killed someone, a mother of one, thinki about if the sho was on the other foot, and the driver killed Brandy, they would give her like 30 years for vehicular manslaughter so why should Brandy only be given a misdeamenor charge.

Brandy's car accident

James,LA,CA — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 09:07:10 GMT

Sueing brandy for 50mil seems to be a slap in the face of the dead women. How does greed help anything, what does it teach anybody by trying to profit from death. I would be a shamed of my family if they tried to sue 50mil for my death, it tells me they care nothing about me but their wallet.

Brandy's car accident

John,Orange County,CA — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 09:11:27 GMT

It was an accident, i have been in both scenerios. The first time i was stuck in traffic and a ford truck was going 65 mph straight at me on the 5 freeway, it was coming and it did not stop i decided to drive my car to the side and luckily it gave him time to stop 5 inches from the car in front of me. The other scenerio was last week when i looked left on the 22 and suddenly the traffic was a stand still luckily i stopped in time and had the next lane free to slow down.

Brandy's car accident

dave — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 10:37:44 GMT

She needs to do life in prison! She took a life! She needs to surrender hers!!! Thats the PERFECT answer. Thats the RIGHT answer.

Brandy's car accident

pekpek, San Jose — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 18:06:16 GMT

For everyone insisting that Brandy should not serve time or it is not her fault because "it was an accident" - put yourself in the position of the family of the person that died in this accident. Would you have the same sentiments? I don't think so. Bottomline is, somebody died and the person responsible needs to pay the price...celebrity or non celebrity. People cannot get away with crime by just saying that it was an accident. A life was taken away for goodness sakes, saying oopsies will not bring that person's life back. Accidents do happen everyday but when someone gets really hurt or when somebody dies then somebody's gotta take accountability for it. She should serve time and pay the price. If I shot soembody on accident, can I get away with it by saying I didn't know it had bullets? Think about it people.

Brandy's car accident

Jewel — Thu, 01 Feb 2007 20:55:56 GMT

Like most everyone else I feel sorry for everyone involved in this situation. I couldnt imagine the guilt I would feel if I were Brandy. Although I feel that she should be held responsible Brandy should not be taken advantage of because of her status. If she were an average joe wouldnt her auto insurance handle the monetary issues. I dont think that it is right for her to be sued for such a grand amount of money. This it just the type of workd we live in. Everyone is out to make a profit. 50 million dollars will not bring that poor woman back and what will the family do with that much money.

Brandy's car accident

carmen payne 88-15 168 street jamaica,ny11432 — Sat, 03 Feb 2007 17:44:46 GMT

i fell very sorry for brandy my pryers are with her and what she is going through she is a very sweet person and thy should be easy on her she wasnt on drugs or drinking and i fell becouse she is a famous person this is why there coming down on her more just to make her look bad i am sorry for the family and god has his way of asking for his children now she is in a better place blessing to brandy and the family for there lost

Brandy's car accident

Jenna, Mt. Pleasant, Michigan — Sun, 04 Feb 2007 20:07:41 GMT

I agree with Jewel's statement. Brandy may have wealth and be very fortunate. I dont see her trying to get out of anything because she knows she was in the wrong along with all the millions of drivers out there that get into car accidents. But the fact is $50 million for a death of a person. That is very outrageous. If it was some non celebrity those people would probably not sue them for such a ridiculous amount. Most people are just suing to get something for nothing. They did lose a daughter but come on be reasonable. Money isnt going to bring this dead girl back and I highly doubt its gonna make them any happier with it. If it does then they really dont deserve it cause they are just sick people then. I just believe this country has gone to h*** with sue happy people.

Brandy's car accident

Wes Allen, Anderson, IN — Tue, 06 Feb 2007 09:26:53 GMT

If I haddone this horrible act, I would be charged. I have never been arrested or jailed for any reason and I am 63.

Brandy's car accident

Alyssa, Hartford, Connecticut — Wed, 07 Feb 2007 23:53:07 GMT

Hello people. Listen to yourselves. This accident could've happened to you. Is anyone paying attention to the road 100% of the time? No. Brandy did not mean to hit the woman, and although it is very tragic, you cannot blame her for everything. It was fate. The Toyota could've not hit the center divider and it could've not been struck by the Acura. It's sad that people blame celebrities more than anyone else. Brandy was not a crackpot, was not yakking on her phone, not drunk or smoking...She probably just had a lapse in judgment.And like Jenna and Jewel, I am deeply sorry, but the price for the accident is ridiculous. The family is taking advantage that Brandy is a big-time celebrity with millions rather than treating this as it would have been if an average joe killed his daughter. Don't dwell on the past. I pray for those who died.

Brandy's car accident

Peanut, SD CA — Sat, 10 Feb 2007 07:41:12 GMT

I drive a Miata, and I've been rearended 4 times. The first time I was the front of a 4-car pile up, I was stopped on the 405 Southbound at / about Carson, CA, and I just felt 2 thuds one after the other. The second time, I was stopped at a red light, and a teenager on a Suburban slipped towards me, and tapped my rear bumper. The third time, I was stopped at a red light, and as the light turned green, I felt a thud behind me and saw this massive Ford 250 (the driver said he didn't see me and I was right in front of him). The fourth time, I was stopped again at a red light, and this time it was a much stronger impact when a Ford Excursion couldn't stop in time and hit me. My family owns a Dodge Ram 1500 and I can truly understand the power of these huge trucks. But being the owner of a small car, I can certainly appreciate auto drivers when I am driving the truck. I do not cut them off, and I give enough distance between myself and the car ahead of me, with my speed always variable and dependent on current traffic conditions. I can go to 80mph on the fast lane when it's safe for me, but I refuse to go fast when cars ahead of me are going slower or if I see brake lights on the horizon. It's not being wimpy. It's being cautious, it's my desire to live my life and not be another statistic. I just hope that other people pay attention to traffic conditions, and have road etiquette and respect for the other denizens on the road. Brandy was driving a Land Cruiser. A little distraction, and if traffic ahead slows down in that same split second she was distracted, one could only hope there was sufficient distance for her and the car ahead of her to avoid impact. It's a tragedy.

Brandy's car accident

l.will, Tampa, FL — Mon, 12 Feb 2007 05:00:24 GMT

You can't compare a car accident where no drugs, alcahol, or a cell phone were involved to shooting someone. Who would think that. And whoever thinks that someone would get 30 years for a accident such as this one is wrong. I've heard other accidents similar to this one that have not gotten national attention. It's definitely crazy for her to be facing two law suits. I pray that everything works out fairly. She didn't intentionally set out to cause an accident and she shouldn't dare face any jail time. They shouldn't use her as an example just because she's a celeb. Brandy has worked hard through music, t.v and moveis and shouldn't lose it all because of an accident. If the shoe was on the other foot and a celeb was seriously injured what would their family sue for? What if the person had nothing to give, what then? People are seriously trippin with their judgements thinking that this doesn't happen to everyday people. I have been hit and been an at fault driver, accidents do happen.

Brandy's car accident

Liz, Germantown, MD — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 14:53:53 GMT

Aboudihaj family should be ashamed of themselves for measuring their mothers life with such a ridicuolus amount money. They are only trying to take advantage of Brandy. If Brandy was an average Joe...they wouldnt ask for this outrageous amount because not everyone has this amount of money. It's wrong to be so selfish.

Brandy's car accident

A Oblio — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 17:25:49 GMT

There are no "Hondas" in those photos. The black car is a Toyota Corolla, and the two-tone grey car is an old Acura Legend. Also, why don't we see Brandy's SUV anywhere? I wish news reporters could get SOMETHING right.

Brandy's car accident

Darnell (New York, New York — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 21:47:50 GMT

The first chick that commented on here (dfluff62, Los Angeles, Ca) sounds as if she has personal issues with Brandy with her name calling and her lack of intelligence. Please understand the term accident and what an accident is even though it took a life in this case. Before judgments can and should be made one should have a little more first hand incite...other than that people start to sound closed minded and not worth hearing.

Brandy's car accident

Matt, Florida — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 23:21:00 GMT

The fact that the CHP recommended to the district attorney that charges be filed show that they found something to make them believe that she was not driving approprietly. I don't think that she should get harsh punishment just because she is a celebrity and to make a point, but at the same time if she did something; which the police obviously feel she did she should be charged. The CHP, like all highway patrols, literally see dozens of accidents everyday and tens of thousands of people are killed on the highways and the highway patrol does a full investigation. The fact that a celebrity was involved means they probally looked at this accident harder than most and they feel that she was neglectful.

Brandy's car accident

Guss, Riverhaven, IN — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 13:23:16 GMT

Further proof that petite divas should never be given keys to huge, $100,000 Range Rovers. Britney Spears can't even park hers. A knuklehead bodyguard has to do it for her. For the safety of the planet, they should all be made to take taxis.

Brandy's car accident

Gertrude — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 20:31:26 GMT

Rowan...the accident was ultimately Brandy's fault. When the car went over the divider it was hit by another car that did not see it coming. The last person to hit the car was absolutely helpless in that situation because they did not anticipate and had nowhere to go. Should they have swerved lanes, they probably would have ran into another car. You imagine being on your side of the road when another car comes out of nowhere. What would you do in less than 3 seconds? I feel very sorry for Brandy and would never want to be in her situation but she was the starting point for the accident. It was her fault.

Brandy's car accident

Gertrude — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 20:33:18 GMT

Brandy is skinny but she's 5'6 or 5'7. Guss what you've said is completely ignorant.

Brandy's car accident

P Koz, Columbia, MD — Sat, 24 Feb 2007 21:36:28 GMT

My wife was killed in a car accident on Jan.2. I am living this nightmare every day. After reading some of the comments posted I feel compelled to shed some insight. #1 Darnell(New York,NY)asks us to understand the term accident and what an accident is. I agree even though he does not seem to understand. An accident as defined by Merriam-Webster: 1 a : an unforeseen and unplanned event or circumstance 2 a : an unfortunate event resulting especially from carelessness or ignorance b : an unexpected and medically important bodily event especially when injurious c : an unexpected happening causing loss or injury which is not due to any fault or misconduct on the part of the person injured but for which legal relief may be sought. The last time I checked ignorance is not a legal defence. Just because this was an "accident" does not preclude her from responsibility. We all know that there was no intent on Brandys part to cause the wreck; if there was then she could be charged with murder. It is the States job to decide if her actions were criminal or not. The fact that she is a celeb has nothing to do with the fact that the State has yet to file charges. Believe me when I tell you (as I am going thru this this very second) that this is not a speedy process. Accident reconstruction is a science that takes longer than an hour episode of CSI to conclude. The State Attorney will decide, not the CHP, if criminal charges will be filed. This leads me to #2 Most people know, but apperently not all, that there is civil court and criminal court. Anyone who knows anything about the O.J. saga knows the difference. To say that Brandy does not deserve all those law suits is correct because there is only one suit, the civil suit. In Criminal Court one faces charges by the State i.e. vehicular manslaghter, wreckless endangerment, etc., suits are filed in civil court by family or on behalf of the estate of the deceased. Neither is dependent upon the other so it is possible and probable to be charged and sued. Next#3: On the gun analogy. Anyone who doesnt think that a car/truck can be the equivalent to a loaded gun both legally and in life are nieve. Imagine your car is a bullet and you happen to be in control of that bullet. No one forced you to get behind the wheel of that bullet. If you intentionaly fire that bullet at someone or unintentionaly the bullet is nonetheless fired. The difference is murder vs manslaughter/self defence. #4:50 million dollars America, are you a good American? I just cant believe some of you out there so high and mighty on your so called moral ground. Lets seperate ignorance from fact for a moment shall we. People throughout time have given up much including there lives to establish and then defend our rights in this country. Remember a little thing called the Civil Rights movement or some guy named Martin Luther King. Dont blame the family of the vitim for slapping a $50 million law suit. No one will disagree that that is alot of money but what other recourse do they have? Maybe you would have felt better if they had sued for $5 or lets say $13,500? People say you cant put a price on life. So is that to say that the life that was taken that day had no value? I think not. What value then, 50 cents 50 million? Who is to say? To call them greedy or gold diggers or to say that this is morally wrong is just stupid and shows a lack of intelligence. CERTAIN INALIENABLE RIGHTS---LIFE---LIBERTY---PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS. When these are taken our countrys judicial system has recourse, i.e. Civil Action. So dont blame them for doing one of the things our country was founded on. Move to China or North Korea if law suits upset you. I dont know Brandy personnally. She may be the kindest person on the planet, however, every time each of us gets behind the wheel of a vehicle you are accepting responsibility for that vehicle because, obviously, the vehicle cannot think for itself. If she is at fault she should pay, if not she should walk. Justice is blind folded for a reason. I hope justice will be served.

Brandy's car accident

L Wash, Braintree, MA — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 10:41:00 GMT

If Brandy was using her cell phone at the time of the accident, then yes she is partly at fault. I've traveled on the 405 Freeway and you are taking your chances each time you drive it considering how fast the traffic is going. I believe some sort of RMV action should be taken against Brandy but not criminal action. I also believe that the amount the parents are suing for is excessive. The mother worked alledgedly five jobs, then the wages she reported to the IRS times twice her age is an appropriate settlement for the children. The relatives can find another meal ticket.

Brandy's car accident

Andrea, San Diego, CA — Thu, 22 Mar 2007 02:43:59 GMT

Hey John, when that happened to you on the 5, was it in San Diego going north right around Genesee and was the car in front of you an older Chevy sedan and did the truck end up at a right angle to the lane?

Brandy's car accident

Rex — Fri, 30 Mar 2007 21:33:44 GMT

People should not be above the law. You are given a responsibility when you have a license. A motorist who causes an accident is charged with such and has points added to their license. Someone drinking is charged accordingly as well. All of these offences apply to everyone. I cannot believe how many of these celebrities are getting off so easily. A man locally was just charged with his first DUI here. He was put in jail for 90 days, for his first offence! Why is it that Paris Hilton and her ex-bf Nicole can go driving around drunk, Paris Hilton more than once even, and not get a single day in jail? Paris is a multiple offender even, and not a day in jail, not one. People are crying about harshness because these people are celebrities? Celebrities are still people, they're just able to afford better lawyers than the average joe. You don't do 65 or faster down any street, road, or highway and not know traffic is slowing down or stopping. You have to not be paying attention, and that is something required of all of us by law to do when driving a motorized vehicle. I don't care if you're the worlds most popular celebrity, or the most unknown low class citizen. If you break the law you deserve to be charged accordingly. Accidents are just that, but taking a life with your vehicle is not something easily done. Especially when they are in a vehicle further ahead of yours, infront of other vehicles you're crashing into. Brandy may be a celebrity, and it may truly have been an accident, but she took a life. Anyone of us could have done it and we'd still be charged with the life we took, as well as the accident we caused. Why are there such complaints about her status as a public figure. That should have nothing to do with what has happened. She's still a person, human being first, public icon second.

Brandy's car accident

MaDonna, Memphis,Tn. — Tue, 03 Apr 2007 19:13:27 GMT

I honestly don't understand how some people are judging Brandy. Why is this, there is a reason they are called accidents. That's what this was.Brandy does alot of positive things with her fame, she is always helping a cause or a person, or teaching a lesson.She had a bad accident, why must it be her fault. Is there that many people who pay attention to everything without missing a step? Things happen sometimes beyond our control. A car can jump in front of us, or slam on their brakes in a second.It happens all the time.It doesn't mean someone is to blame.No one is perfect, imagine this terrible accident happened with your child driving.Would you be as harsh as you are now?If she was drinking or doing drugs to alter her thinking I could understand what a bad thing, this was her fault getting behind the wheel.That would be a bad mistake on her part,it would be without a question her fault. However, this is not the case.It was an accident,very bad one with sad consiquences.Yet, it was an accident that could of happened to anyone of us, remember that before you judge...

Brandy's car accident

Sandy, Colorado Springs, CO — Fri, 13 Apr 2007 04:36:44 GMT

I don't think there's any difference between talking on your phone behind the wheel and driving drunk. Every day, often many times, I see somebody driving like a jackass because they can't quit flapping their gums for twenty minutes at a time. I think people who crash while talking on the phone should be treated just as harshly as a DUI because they are just as much voluntarily lessening their ability to concentrate, thereby endangering innocent people.

Brandy's car accident

Star, St. Pau, MN — Fri, 20 Apr 2007 04:01:18 GMT

I tend to agree with a lot of you as to who is and who is not at fault. If you are not a murderer, killing someone is already a high price to pay. She will have to live with that guilt for the rest of her life. Celebrity or not, she is human. And I just have to say, people--every day happens to be two words the way it is used here. I do not know who turned it into one word, but it was not Webster's.

Brandy's car accident

Ame doe — Sun, 22 Apr 2007 13:55:10 GMT

To Angie,Oh Just because a celebrity has deep pockets doesn't make them liable for paying off a family. Thats whats wrong with society always looking for away to get rich quick at any expense.

Brandy's car accident

Adey, Nottingham, UK — Sun, 22 Apr 2007 19:20:37 GMT

There is way too much speculation on this forum. She was on the phone, she was too small to be capable of controlling an SUV (WHAT?), she was distracted by gadgets. Not one ounce of hard fact other than the fact that it was an ACCIDENT. The kind we have all had, every one of us. Should we all be sued for $50 millon? Or is it that rich people are more responsible for an accidental death than 'ordinary' people. Or, could it be that the families of dead people see a way to GET more money when the person who caused the accident is rich. Do they want the money to replace their loved one? No. They just want the cash. Will $49 million go to road safety charities or to those who help the bereaved? No. Will some of it go on big SUVs for the 'grieving' family. I suspect it will. Lord forbid one of them then has an accident, because then they'll have to give all that money back. Why? Because they're RICH now. Is this the first accident this family have been a part of? Did they sue before? For $50 million? Or are they only suing now because ot is a celebrity. If we are going to speculate, then WHAT IF this family have, in the past, caused an accident/death of their own? Were they sued for multi-millions? Did they expect to be? Would they they have considered it fair if they had or would they, like the bulk of decent people, find it to be greedy and distasteful? Cars are dangerous. VERY. More so than planes/trains and boats. If you do not want to run the risk of dying in an accident, don't get into a car, because ACCIDENTS do happen. It's that simple. If you do get in a car... expect the risks and face the worse with good grace, not avarice.

Brandy's car accident

Brooklynn,Columbus, Ohio — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 13:43:54 GMT

Brandy is a young beautiful actress/singer who many people are going after her for just that. She knows what she did and she has to live with that for the rest of her life. On top of that they want her to pay 50 million dllars. What are they crazy. Put yourself in her shoes and see how she must feel. I feel for Brandy and the family of the deceased woman.What do they need with 50 million dollars. That is extreme! I can see a nice amount for the funeral! But how can you put a prce on someones life? Just because she is a celebrity with money she has to give that money!

Brandy's car accident

Candice,Detroit,Michigan — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 13:52:56 GMT

Sandy I must say many people do talk on their cell phones when they are in the car. I bet even you talk on your cell phone at times. If you had good money and this happened to you I know you would not think you should pay that kind of money. It's an accident. Lets stop judging Brandy and try to see how she feels.

Brandy's car accident

Janice Young,Columbus,Ohio — Thu, 26 Apr 2007 13:55:56 GMT

All the people who say things about little Brandy are haters. Grow up and why do you hold a grudge on small skinny people.

Brandy's car accident

Sandy, Colorado Springs, CO — Fri, 27 Apr 2007 00:37:03 GMT

As a matter of fact, Candice, I do not, and I would not talk on a cell phone behind the wheel while the car was in motion unless it was an emergency. I did it once, realized I was not in full control of the car anymore, and never did it again. More and more states and cities are passing laws recognizing the fact that it's a dangerous practice. The fact that many people do it doesn't mean it's safe. I'm not in favor of crazy lawsuits, but purely from the question of prosecution, anyone who crashes while on a cell phone should be treated like a drunk driver. By being on the phone you are just as much voluntarily giving up full control of the car, and putting other people at risk. And that is not an accident but a decision.

Brandy's car accident

Mora — Tue, 15 May 2007 17:46:19 GMT

Los Angeles traffic, especially on the 405, is subject to scary sudden squalls. One minute you are driving 55 on a clear road and just seconds later, and I mean seconds, it's standstill traffic. I think that is what happened to Brandy, it's really easy to have close calls like this. It has nearly happened to me once and I still have flashbacks about it, it is so scary. I always watch for the red lights of braking, not just of the cars ahead of me, but of the cars as far ahead as I can see. But I know it's not foolproof. I feel for Brandy, I think she got into a horrific accident.

Brandy's car accident

Sandra, New York — Wed, 30 May 2007 19:21:44 GMT

This nightmare just keeps getting worse. I hope Brandy is not charged with manslaughter. I hope she wasnt talking on the phone because if she was her phone records will show it. I hope both she and the family can heal there wounds with time because this cant be easy for either side but the healing process will not occur until the family of the victim start thinking with their head and heart and not their wallets. They are looking to profit from their loss instead of seeking real justice. Like it or not they will have to forgive Brandy and the other driver for being human.

Brandy's car accident

Celia Dovin, Everett, Washington — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 00:05:48 GMT

wow I cant believe Brandy will do a thing like that. Brandy is cool but how did she got in a car accident? well I dont know! anyways, this is scary.

Brandy's car accident

Marilyn, San Diego — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 18:19:53 GMT

If you live in Southern CA you know how easy it would be to create a chain reaction on the 405. Easy! As much as I value the priviledge of my cell phone; I look for the day when they are outlawed while driving. Brandy created an accident yes but she has taking the responsibility for it. I'm just grateful drinking or drugs were not involved. Unlike the idiot that recently plowed her car through a car while on Crack Cocaine! Or the father who was too plastered to drive home so his 9 yr old drove instead. Why aren't we up in arms about these fools?! I want the law to be consistent when dealing with these issues; celebrity and joe schmoe alike. That's all any of us want, right?

Brandy's car accident

Mandy from San Diego, California — Tue, 05 Jun 2007 18:33:12 GMT

Brandy my be a celebrity but the absolute bottom line is this.... she is human. Imperfect just as we all are. I do beleive there has to be some accountability on Brandys part. I believe she owes that family comfort. I believe her conscious is making her pay far more than she wants it to. She is scared, shaken, regretful and remorseful and this will never leave her til the day she is laid to rest herself. That saying about only one life to live so live it well? Everyone please take it to heart. No matter the outcome, no matter what settlement the family receives for their loss, no matter how many other people are lost in accidents or die from no accident at all, remember, no one comes back, no amount of apology or money will bring them. Everyone...drive safe, think of yourself and others and the consequences of your actions at all times. Brandy, young lady, I pray for you. The family of the Awatef Aboudihaj, I pray for you that your pain and grief will be eased with each passing day. I lost a nephew 3 yrs ago. His mother killed him then killed herself. That ladies and gentlemen, was no accident. I forgave her even though she is no longer here. Forgivness and Compassion are wonderful things. Leave the judging to the rightful owner of the task.

Brandy's car accident

Keon, Marla Long Beach, CA — Sat, 25 Aug 2007 17:36:36 GMT

Accidents do happen, celebrity or non-celebrity, but the point is Brandy took a life away. The woman is somebody's mother, somebody's sister, and somebody's wife and she's never coming back. Gadget or no gadget people, PAY ATTENTION TO THE F****** ROAD!!! I'm sorry Brandy, you need to do your time and when you come out, you'll be spending the rest of your life owing the family. One advice to Brandy, don't ever drive again.

Brandy's car accident

niecy: Miami — Sat, 17 Nov 2007 03:19:21 GMT

how do we know that it was Brandy's car that caused the death,another car was also involved.

Brandy's car accident

Haroon Latif, Morgantown WV — Sat, 29 Dec 2007 19:37:56 GMT

Some people who post here need to think logically. If a 2 ton hits a honda at 65mph how can you blame the driver four going to the center dived. What other decision could you make in that period of time. Does the elementary formula Kenetic energy=.5*M*V^2 mean anything? Lets see .5*4000*10000=20,000,000 footpounds of force on the car. which was all cause the careless Brandy. You can not blame anybody but her for the death.

Brandy's car accident

Universe — Sun, 30 Dec 2007 18:15:39 GMT

There are new facts and theories in the case now, almost a year after the crash.

That is why it is best never to judge until all the evidence is in

Brandy will not be charged by the DA

Brandy's car accident

dora griggs — Fri, 25 Jan 2008 22:29:07 GMT

my son who was only 20 was killed 9-01-07, the driver was under the influence, there was testimony from another passenger in the car who survived, my son was thrown out of the vechicle and landed on the freeway, another vechicle ran over him this person did,nt see him because she was on the cell phone.
yea people need to be held accountable. money can not bring my son back. i only want justice and there has been none