Fatal Car vs. Pedestrian Crash in Merced
Officials reported a fatal car vs. pedestrian crash in the Merced area on the late night of Thursday, April 7, 2022. According to the Merced Police Department (Merced PD), the collision occurred in the area of G Street and 14th Street at approximately 10:00 p.m.
Details on the Fatal Pedestrian vs. Car Crash in Merced
A woman was walking in the area when she was reportedly struck by a marked Merced PD vehicle driven by an on-duty officer. Sadly, she succumbed to her injuries at the scene. Authorities have indicated that the Merced PD officer operating the vehicle has been placed on paid administrative leave following the fatal pedestrian accident.
The investigation of the incident has been turned over to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Additional information has not yet been released by CHP traffic officers. Those with details on the fatal pedestrian vs. car crash in Merced are encouraged to reach out to the California Highway Patrol and request to speak with Officer Jorgenson.
What Families Should Know About Fatal Pedestrian Accident Cases
A pedestrian is vulnerable when sharing the road with motor vehicles as they lack the same level of physical protection cars provide, such as airbags, steel frames, and seatbelts. Motorists often do not provide their full attention to the road. This may come at the cost of those walking on the road, as drivers who are texting, speeding, and engaging in other reckless behaviors may crash into them and cause serious injuries. In some extreme cases, death may occur. When this occurs, the family of the decedent may take action against the negligent driver in the form of a wrongful death action. Remember that such cases require clear and compelling evidence to establish negligence on the part of the other side. That is because it is not uncommon for the at-fault party and their insurer to shift liability onto the deceased pedestrian as a way of getting out of paying compensation on a claim.
The road to recovery and justice after a fatal crash may be stressful and overwhelming. However, an experienced Merced pedestrian accident lawyer may simplify the process for surviving family members by handling all aspects of their case. An attorney will assist survivors in bringing a claim against the at-fault party or entity to seek the financial compensation they need for economic and non-economic damages. This may include mental anguish, lost companionship, funeral service costs, expenses for end-of-life medical care, and more. While no amount of money may undo the pain of losing a family member or bring them back, it may provide a family with a sense of closure, knowing that the other individual or entity has been held liable for the damages their negligent conduct has caused. For more details on wrongful death claims, watch this video.
Importance of Hiring an Attorney After a Government Vehicle Accident
When a loss of life occurs in a pedestrian accident involving a vehicle owned by a government entity, it is essential for surviving family members to consult with an experienced Merced wrongful death attorney immediately. While a two-year statute of limitations generally applies to fatal crash cases, this does not apply to those involving government vehicles. Under the California Government Code Section 911.2, claimants have six months from the date of loss to file a notice of claim with the intention of seeking damages from that entity. Failure to file the notice within 180 days of the accident may result in the dismissal of the case and the loss of the right to seek financial compensation.
The strict filing criteria and deadlines that apply to wrongful death cases involving public entities are one of the many reasons why it is essential to retain legal counsel right away following the loss of a close relative. Working with an attorney that is experienced in handling government entity claims will know the best way to proceed with your case. Remember that you only have 180 days from the accident date to take legal action, so do not delay in discussing your options with an experienced accident lawyer. At our law firm, we are available anytime to listen to your story and provide compassionate, free, and friendly advice on how to move forward.
Wrongful Death Lawyer in Merced
I’m Ed Smith, a Merced wrongful death lawyer. The loss of a close relative is painful for any family to experience, particularly if it could have been prevented. When a loved one has lost their life in an accident because of someone else’s negligence, surviving family members may have important rights under California law. To learn more, contact our legal team today to arrange a free consultation with one of our skilled and compassionate attorneys at (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400. Our lawyers are here anytime to meet with you and your family to provide free, friendly case advice.
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