Fatal Big Rig Crash on Road 31 in Madera County
Officials in Madera County reported a fatal big rig crash on Road 31 and Avenue 7 on the afternoon of Wednesday, November 3, 2021. The truck accident occurred at approximately 4:15 p.m. just northwest of Fresno and involved a Nissan SUV and a tractor-trailer.
Information by Madera County Officials on the Fatal Big Rig Crash on Road 31
A spokesman for the California Highway Patrol (CHP) indicated that a semi-truck was headed eastbound on Avenue 7 while transporting a set of double trailers. At the same time, a Nissan SUV was traveling westbound on Avenue 7.
The big rig reportedly veered off the roadway, and the truck driver attempted to overcorrect the vehicle causing both trailers to overturn onto the Nissan, CHP traffic officers reported. The trucker suffered injuries described as minor in the traffic collision. Sadly, the two occupants of the Nissan were declared deceased at the scene.
The Madera County Coroner’s office has recently identified the two decedents as 33-year-old Arlene Ochoa and 41-year-old Jessica Hernandez, both residents of Firebaugh. A GoFundMe page has been established on behalf of Ms. Ochoa and her family. Additional information on the fatal truck accident has not been released as an investigation is ongoing by CHP.
What to Expect from a Wrongful Death Truck Accident Case
When a loved one is suddenly lost in an accident, the lives of surviving family members may drastically change. Survivors may find themselves without the financial support of the primary provider of the household or the companionship of a beloved family member. While a close relative will always be remembered and cherished, a family must also think of themselves as they work to find a way to move forward in their situation. When the incident was the result of someone else’s negligence, surviving family members may have the right to take legal action against that party through a wrongful death action. A successful case may provide survivors with the means they need to cover unexpected losses.
A wrongful death claim may compensate surviving family members for any economic or non-economic damages in connection to the loss of a loved one. These may include medical expenses for end-of-life treatment, funeral service costs, loss of future wages, lost inheritance or benefits the decedent would have provided to survivors, mental anguish, loss of companionship, and more. If the other party’s behavior was particularly egregious, a family may also seek punitive damages. For instance, if the fatal truck accident occurred because of driving under the influence (DUI) or excessive speeding on the part of the truck driver, the court may award punitive damages to punish that party and discourage similar situations from occurring to others in the future.
As with any type of claim for a motor vehicle accident, liability must be established to prevail in a claim for compensatory damages. Evidence must be collected and preserved before it is destroyed or lost as time goes by. Keep in mind that a letter of preservation of evidence must also be sent to the trucking company immediately after a fatal big rig crash. Without evidence of demonstrating negligence on the part of the at-fault parties, it may be challenging to hold them responsible in a civil case. Therefore, it is best to work with an experienced Madera wrongful death attorney to ensure that all evidence related to the incident is gathered and preserved. This way, a strong case for fair compensation may be brought on your behalf. For information on how to find the best attorney, watch this video.
How Our Legal Team Can Help Your Family
At AutoAccident.com, we have represented many families in wrongful death truck accident cases. We work with experts in the field to build the strongest cases possible to ensure our clients receive the successful outcomes they deserve. If this means taking the case to trial if the other party’s insurance company is unwilling to make a fair settlement offer, our team of accident attorneys will be prepared to do so.
We understand that this may be a difficult time for you and your family and would like to make the process as easy as possible by handling all aspects of your case. When you turn to us for assistance, you can rest assured knowing your case is in good hands. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your family today.
Personal Injury Attorney in Madera
I’m Ed Smith, a Madera personal injury attorney. The loss of a family member is never easy, and the burden may be more challenging to deal with when it is the result of someone else’s recklessness or negligence. Under California law, the family of the decedent may bring a wrongful death claim against the at-fault party for damages incurred. Given the challenges involved in such cases, it is essential to retain legal counsel. At our law firm, we provide compassionate guidance and support to help families like yours make well-informed decisions in trying times. Our legal team would like to know how we can help you and your family. Call us today at (559) 377-7676 or (800) 404-5400 to receive free, friendly case advice from one of our experienced accident attorneys today.
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Our law firm may help you bring a personal injury or wrongful death case if you have sustained injuries or lost a loved one in an accident caused by the negligence of another party or entity. A successful claim is necessary to provide you with the means you need to get your life back on track. To see how we have helped past clients with their cases, visit our Verdicts and Settlements page.
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