Madera Driver Arrested in Fatal Multiple-Vehicle Crash

Fatal Multiple-Vehicle Crash Occurs on Highway 145 

A Madera driver has been arrested for allegedly driving under the influence and causing a fatal multiple-vehicle crash that left one person dead and several others injured. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the incident occurred on Sunday night, August 18, at approximately 11:15 p.m. on Highway 145, west of the Santa Fe Railroad over-crossing.

Driver Crossed Centerline, Causing Fatal Multiple-Vehicle Crash

Investigation revealed that the 39-year-old Madera driver, operating a Dodge Charger, crossed over double yellow lines into the eastbound lane, colliding head-on with a Ford 150 pickup driven by a 61-year-old Madera man. The force of the impact sent the Ford pickup to the south shoulder of the highway, while the Dodge came to rest between the eastbound and westbound lanes.

Additional Vehicles Involved in Fatal Multiple-Vehicle Crash

As the situation unfolded, an 85-year-old man from Marina, driving a Nissan Rogue westbound at 60 mph, failed to see the stationary Dodge due to its dark color and non-functioning lights, resulting in a collision. The impact caused the Nissan to spin into the eastbound lane, which was subsequently struck by a 30-year-old woman driving a Toyota Prius, causing minor damage.

One Person Dies, and Another Suffers Major Injuries

Tragedy struck again when a 66-year-old man from Los Banos plowed into the Dodge at approximately 60 mph, pushing it onto the northern shoulder of Highway 145. The driver of the Dodge was taken to Community Regional Medical Center with major injuries, while the Ford driver was transported to CRMC, where he died. The CHP traffic unit continues to investigate this serious incident involving the Madera driver.

Determining Fault and Recovering Compensation in a Fatal Multiple-Vehicle Crash

In the context of a multiple-vehicle crash, determining fault can be legally complex as various factors come into play. Each driver’s actions leading up to the collision must be evaluated to ascertain liability, which can result in multiple parties being held responsible to varying degrees. Furthermore, insurance claims can become contentious, as insurers may dispute fault to limit their liability, leading to potential delays in compensation.

How a Personal Injury Lawyer Can Help 

A personal injury lawyer can be invaluable in navigating the complexities of a multiple-vehicle accident case. They possess the ability to conduct a thorough investigation, gathering all pertinent evidence, such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements, to build a strong case. Furthermore, a personal injury lawyer can negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of the injured parties, ensuring that their injured clients receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.  

For those who lost a loved one, they work hard to recover damages through a wrongful death claim, including funeral expenses, wages their loved one would have earned until retirement and compensation for their personal losses. By representing clients in court if necessary, personal injury lawyers can advocate for their rights and work towards achieving the best possible outcome.

For essential guidance on wrongful death claims, please check out the video below with accident attorney Ed Smith:

Madera Personal Injury Lawyer

I am Ed Smith, and I’m a personal injury lawyer in Madera. In cases involving multiple vehicles where a fatality and injury occurs, the family and injured party may be able to claim compensation for their losses. Please reach out to us at (559) 377-7676 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice and an assessment of your case to see if you qualify for compensation for your losses. You can also contact us through our online form.

Our team of accident attorneys, esteemed members of the Top 1 Percent and the Million Dollar Advocates Forum is fully committed to prioritizing our client’s best interests. To view the remarkable results we have achieved for our clients, please visit our Settlements & Verdicts page. For reviews and testimonials, refer to our profiles on Yelp, Google, and Avvo.

Photo attribution: Image by Romy from Pixabay

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