Recently, an automotive reviewer named Chen Zhen was involved in a car accident in Beijing, drawing widespread public attention.
On October 5, the family of the accident victims posted on Weibo, expressing deep sorrow over the incident and stating that they were waiting for an official response and further handling of the case. In reply, Chen Zhen reposted the family’s statement and issued a public apology, saying: “I am truly sorry for the harm this unexpected accident has caused you and your family. I will fully cooperate with the authorities, work on follow-up matters, and provide compensation for your losses. Once again, my sincere apologies.”
Shortly after Chen’s apology, Jingdu Law Firm announced that it had been retained by the injured party to provide legal services and handle the traffic accident case. In response to the news that the injured party had hired a lawyer, Chen Zhen stated: “Received! Once again, I sincerely apologize to the injured party, and my legal team will fully cooperate.”
Event recap:
On October 3, some netizens reported online that well-known car reviewer Chen Zhen had been involved in a traffic accident and posted several photos from the scene. The images showed a Rolls-Royce Spectre colliding head-on with a small passenger car, leaving both vehicles heavily damaged. The incident quickly became a trending topic on Weibo and attracted significant attention.
On October 4, Beijing traffic police released an official report on the accident: around 3:00 p.m. on October 3, at the intersection of Zhugezhuang Road and Wanshou Road in Haidian District, Mr. Chen (male, 43), driving a passenger vehicle southbound, collided with another passenger car coming from the opposite direction. Both cars were damaged. Neither driver was under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Preliminary investigations found that Chen was fully responsible for the accident. The case is still under further review.
Following the official report, Chen Zhen reposted it, stating: “Everything will follow the official announcement and the vehicle’s EDR (Event Data Recorder) data.” He also apologized publicly: “It was my fault. I’ll take full responsibility and actively cooperate to resolve this matter without any hesitation. The details of the accident will be based on the official report and EDR data. I apologize to the other party and to everyone for the negative impact caused.”
Chen also responded to netizens, saying he does not dispute or deny the determination of his full responsibility: “Since this accident has caused such a big stir, it’s necessary to provide an accurate and truthful account of what happened, especially with so many rumors circulating. Ultimately, the official report and EDR data will clarify everything.”
Today, Chen further disclosed that he had obtained the injured family’s contact information from authorities yesterday and called them immediately to apologize, inquire about the victim’s condition, and briefly explain the accident. He asked what assistance he could provide and whether he could visit in person. The family reportedly responded that they preferred to meet at the traffic police accident division to discuss follow-up matters.
Chen also mentioned that the other car involved was a Didi ride-hailing vehicle. Since all Didi vehicles come with passenger and driver insurance, and he will also personally cover compensation obligations, the injured party is double protected. He assured that medical expenses, vehicle damage, and other compensation would be fully handled and pledged to cooperate with authorities to properly resolve the matter.
Returning to the issue of the injured party hiring legal representation, some netizens commented that this is a normal traffic accident and should be handled by the police according to procedure. If either side is dissatisfied, they can go to court. They also noted that compensation amounts cannot be determined until the victim’s treatment is completed, as various expenses follow established legal standards. Others expressed support for handling the matter through proper legal channels, letting the law deliver a fair outcome.
