Fatal Collision on SR-152
On the morning of August 29, 2023, the California Highway Patrol reported that one party sustained fatal injuries in a two-vehicle collision on SR-152 at Turner Island Road in Merced County. The incident occurred shortly before 6:00 a.m. and involved a 2020 Buick Encore SUV and a 2003 Honda Accord.
Details on the Fatal Collision on SR-152 at Turner Island Road in Merced County
A preliminary report revealed that one of the involved vehicles allegedly veered into the oncoming traffic lane and crashed into the other car. Emergency personnel were requested at the crash site. Sadly, one party was declared deceased.
Two others were injured, including a 38-year-old woman from Merced, and a passenger, age 12. Both parties were treated at a hospital in Modesto.
Officials have identified the deceased as Alberto Guerrero Covarrubias, age 26. Additional information on the fatal collision on SR-152 at Turner Island Road in Merced County has not yet been released by CHP traffic officers.
What is a Wrongful Death Claim?
A fatal motor vehicle collision is often unexpected, leaving surviving family members shocked and grieving. The loss of a loved one can leave an empty space for survivors who feel like it may never be filled. While nothing may undo the pain and devastation, it is essential that surviving family members understand their rights and options when someone else is to blame. When a loved one loses their life in an accident due to an act of recklessness or carelessness, the survivors of the deceased can file a claim of wrongful death against the at-fault party to seek justice and financial compensation.
CCP 377.60 specifies that after a wrongful death, specific survivors have priority to file a case to recover damages. These generally include the surviving spouse, domestic partner, or children of the individual who died. If neither children, domestic partner, nor spouse survives, other relatives may be eligible to bring a claim. Moreover, a strict deadline applies to these matters. A case must be filed no later than two years from the date of loss. This must be done if the claim is not settled and serves the purpose of protecting the statute. Failure to do so may result in losing the right to seek compensation.
Surviving family members must prove elements of the other side’s negligence in a wrongful death case. This includes that a duty of care was owed to the deceased, there was a breach of duty, the breach of duty was the direct cause of the incident and damages. Proving these elements in a wrongful death case will require clear and compelling evidence, some of which may require testimony from expert witnesses. As such, it is helpful to work with an experienced wrongful death lawyer in California. The right attorney will have the knowledge and resources to help build your case, work with experts, and prove your claim.
Evidence in a Wrongful Death Car Accident Case
An experienced accident attorney will examine all the facts and circumstances associated with the matter. This will include traffic incident reports, eyewitness accounts, photos of the crash site, video footage, and more. Gathering and preserving any evidence related to the cause of death is essential. Using all available resources, a skilled attorney will do everything in their power to ensure that survivors receive the justice and financial compensation they deserve. You can expect that when you work with our legal team at AutoAccident.com. Learn more in this video or set up a free case evaluation today.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Merced
At AutoAccident.com, our goal is to obtain justice and secure full compensation for injuries or untimely losses that occur in traffic collisions caused by the negligence of others. We work closely with our clients to understand how their accidents have impacted them to build strong and compelling cases that tell their stories. When you are ready to discuss your situation, our legal team will be here to provide a free consultation. Dial (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400 to receive free, friendly advice from one of our experienced and knowledgeable Merced personal injury lawyers.
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