Fatal I-80 Crash Near Carquinez Bridge
Officials in Contra Costa County reported a fatal car crash on I-80 near the Carquinez Bridge on the morning of Sunday, March 20, 2022. The incident was described as a head-on collision involving three vehicles, including a Tesla Model 3, Toyota Camry, and Honda SUV.
Details on the Fatal Crash on I-80 Near the Carquinez Bridge
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) responded to a report of a three-vehicle crash on I-80 near Pomona Street. A preliminary report by authorities suggested that the Tesla was traveling east on Interstate 80 while a Honda SUV was allegedly going the wrong way on eastbound I-80. The Honda allegedly collided head-on with the Tesla causing major damage to both vehicles. The Tesla and the Honda reportedly came to a rest along eastbound Interstate 80, where they were later struck by a Toyota.
The impact of the collision allegedly caused both the Tesla and Honda to be fully engulfed in flames, according to CHP traffic officers. The Toyota driver sustained injuries described as minor in the crash. Sadly, the Honda driver and the Tesla driver both succumbed to their injuries at the scene. Officials have recently identified the decedents as 29-year-old Madyson James of Emeryville and 38-year-old Ruiju Ma of Vallejo. Anyone with information on the wrong-way vehicle and those who witnessed the incident are encouraged to reach out to the Contra Costa Area CHP Office in Martinez.
Loss of a Loved One in a Traffic Collision
Losing someone you love is devastating, particularly if it occurred because of another party’s negligence. When this proves to be the case, survivors may seek monetary compensation through a wrongful death action filed against the other side. Some of the recoverable losses may include but are not limited to:
- Economic Damages: Surviving family members may be compensated for financial losses that may be proven through evidence such as receipts, bills, invoices, and past pay stubs for the decedent’s income. Economic damages may include funeral and burial expenses, lost earnings, loss of inheritance, the value of lost services that the deceased would have provided to the household, pension, and more. Testimony from expert witnesses may be necessary for proving the value of economic damages in addition to their reasonableness and necessity.
- Non-Economic Damages: Survivors may seek recovery of losses that are intangible in nature. These may include loss of care and companionship, mental anguish, lost parental guidance, and more. It can be challenging to prove non-economic damages and their value. That is why it is essential to work with an attorney who can build a strong and compelling wrongful death case for the recovery of non-economic damages.
- Punitive Damages: If egregious conduct contributed to a loss of life, the court may award punitive damages. These are solely intended to punish the other side for their actions and to serve as an example that such conduct will not be tolerated. In the case of a fatal motor vehicle collision, punitive damages may be sought from the negligent driver for excessive speeding or driving while under the influence. Punitive damages are sought separately from economic and non-economic damages.
Determining the value of a wrongful death claim requires clear and compelling evidence in addition to expert witness testimony. A skilled Martinez wrongful death lawyer will know the best way to proceed when it comes to building a strong case for full and fair compensation. Let an experienced attorney devise an effective legal strategy while you and your loved ones focus on grieving and recovering from your loss. Watch the video below for tips and suggestions on how to select the best accident attorney to represent your family.
About Our Legal Team
Bringing a strong wrongful death case requires more than just a compassionate and dedicated attorney. To obtain the justice and fair compensation you and your loved ones need, it is essential to work with a law firm that has the knowledge, skills, and resources necessary for bringing a successful claim forward. At AutoAccident.com, we have over three decades of experience handling wrongful death matters. The best part about working with our law firm is that we handle cases under a contingent fee agreement meaning you will not have to pay any attorneys’ fees unless we obtain fair compensation on your behalf. Give us a call today to learn more and schedule a free consultation with one of our lawyers.
Car Accident Lawyer in Martinez
I’m Ed Smith, a Martinez car accident lawyer. No family deserves to face the financial and intangible losses of a close relative’s death on their own. A wrongful death claim provides a way for surviving family members to obtain the financial recovery and justice they are owed. If your family is considering taking legal action against the at-fault party, do not wait, as California places a two-year statute of limitations on these cases that may be shortened to as little as six months under specific circumstances. Contact our law firm today to get started on your case and receive free, friendly advice at (925) 428-5220 or (800) 404-5400.
When looking for the best local injury lawyer to handle your case, it is often helpful to look at their ratings and reviews by past clients. See ours at these links:
At AutoAccident.com, we have a history of successful personal injury and wrongful death case results that are featured on our Verdicts and Settlements page for your reference. In recognition of this, we have earned membership in both the Top 1 Percent and Million Dollar Forum.
Photo Credit: Pixabay User “Counselling”
:ds llo [cs 955]