Man Killed in Madera Head-On Collision
A Groveland man was killed in a Madera head-on collision on the evening of May 16, 2019. The car wreck occurred shortly before 5:30 p.m. along Avenue 15 just east of Santa Fe Drive. A man was driving his Ford Transit van eastbound along Avenue 15 as another man was driving his 2010 Chrysler 300 westbound. Witnesses at the scene told the California Highway Patrol (CHP) that the Chrysler driver veered into the oncoming lane and collided head-on with the Ford. The Chrysler driver was transported to the hospital for treatment of critical injuries. Sadly, the Ford driver passed away at the scene. Officials said that the identity of the decedent will be made available after his next-of-kin has been notified. I would like to send my healing thoughts and prayers to the loved ones of the deceased in their time of loss.
Why Are Head-On Collisions More Dangerous?
A head-on collision occurs when the front of one vehicle strikes the front of another car. When this happens, it can present dangerous consequences for those riding in both motor vehicles. These types of car accidents often occur at high speeds. This means the forces involved are overwhelming for the vehicle occupants due to the dangers of the front-end caving into the passenger compartment and glass flying from broken windows. Injuries in these car wrecks are often catastrophic and may prove fatal in some cases.
Why Are the Common Causes of Frontal Car Crashes?
A frontal auto accident can stem from a wide array of reasons, particularly driver error. Among the most common causes include fatigue, distracted driving, intoxication, and unsafe passing. Poor road conditions and defective vehicle equipment can also contribute to a motorist losing control of the vehicle and causing a car wreck. In these cases, a claim may be filed against the government entity responsible for maintenance of the road or the manufacturer of a defective vehicle part.
Common Injuries in a Head-On Accident
Regardless of the sequence of events leading up to the car wreck, any frontal collision can result in traumatic injuries for those involved. These include:
- Cervical sprain caused by damage to the tendons, muscles, and vertebrae inside the shoulders and neck
- Bone fractures in the pelvis, knees, and ankles
- Brain and head injuries which can result in a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Internal trauma which can lead to internal bleeding or even wrongful death
- Lasting emotional suffering including depression, anxiety, and even post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Does Car Insurance Cover Wrongful Death?
Losing someone you love in a fatal head-on crash can be both financially burdensome and emotionally traumatic. The families of those killed in these accidents may be eligible to hold the negligent driver or entity accountable through a wrongful death claim. This type of case seeks compensation for losses incurred from the at-fault party and their insurance company. Following are damages commonly recovered in a wrongful death case:
- Costs of a funeral and burial
- Loss of companionship, affection, love, and guidance
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of future benefits such as retirement and medical insurance
- Loss of future income for the family
- Loss of household services the decedent provided such as lawn maintenance, childcare, and bookkeeping
- Punitive damages are available in cases involving an egregious act such as driving while intoxicated
To learn more about these types of cases, watch the below video.
What Can an Attorney Do For Me?
Any fatal auto accident warrants the legal advice of an experienced Madera wrongful death lawyer. An experienced attorney will be able to analyze the facts and circumstances of the crash and gather the necessary evidence to properly determine fault. A lawyer will guide a family through the legal complexities of a wrongful death case and ensure all elements are met to obtain a fair settlement with the insurance company.
Madera Personal Injury Lawyer
I’m Ed Smith, a Madera personal injury lawyer. A head-on collision can lead to severe injuries or even death for those involved. If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a frontal crash caused by the fault of another, I am here to provide you with compassionate, free, and friendly advice. Please call me at (559) 377-7676 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400.
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Learn more about our law office and prior cases we have handled by visiting our Verdicts and Settlements page.
Image Credit: By “jclk8888” via Pixabay
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