Fatal Tow Truck Collision on Highway 165
On the afternoon of Monday, December 5, 2022, the California Highway Patrol reported a fatal tow truck collision on Highway 165 near American Avenue in Merced County. The incident occurred at approximately 6:45 p.m. and involved a passenger vehicle and a tow truck, authorities said.
Details on the Fatal Tow Truck Collision on Highway 165 in Merced County
In a preliminary release by officials, it was revealed that a passenger vehicle driver, James Merrifield, 28, of Hilmar, was waiting to make a left-hand turn when his car was allegedly rear-ended by a tow truck. The impact of the collision reportedly propelled the passenger vehicle into a big rig in the oncoming traffic lane.
The drivers of the tow truck and the big rig were uninjured in the crash, CHP traffic officers said. The passenger vehicle driver was transported to an area hospital, where he was later declared deceased. The cause of the fatal truck accident on SR-165 and American Avenue in Merced County remains under investigation, and no further details were immediately available.
What is a Wrongful Death Claim?
When a close relative passes away, it is challenging to pick up the pieces and move forward. When you have a family to look after, you may be left without a choice and must consider what may come next. If another party’s negligence caused a loved one’s demise, survivors may have grounds for a wrongful death claim. This type of case is intended to seek reimbursement for economic and non-economic damages resulting from the other side’s negligence and the loss of life.
The purpose of a wrongful death action is to make a family whole again. Compensatory damages may help surviving family members pay funeral and medical expenses and make up for the loss of the decedent’s income and the benefits they provided to the household. These cases may also reimburse survivors for the loss of companionship and mental anguish. While compensation will not bring a loved one back, it may be a resource to help a family rebuild their lives and secure their futures.
If you lost a loved one due to the negligence of another party or entity, you should consider working with an accident attorney to protect your family’s rights and best interests. At AutoAccident.com, our lawyers dedicate their resources, time, and effort to helping families who need compassionate legal representation. We have helped families in Merced County and across California obtain justice and financial compensation. Our injury lawyers have decades of combined experience and would be honored to help your family. Learn more about us by watching this video or scheduling a free consultation.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Merced
I’m Ed Smith, a Merced personal injury lawyer. When a close relative is killed in an accident, it may create undue financial and emotional hardships for surviving family members. It is especially a challenging ordeal when the incident is the result of someone else’s negligence. Holding at-fault parties liable for their actions and the damages they have caused is key to the healing process.
The dedicated wrongful death attorneys from our law firm are available anytime to listen to your story and provide free, friendly case advice. We operate on contingency, meaning your family does not have to worry about upfront costs. Costs of legal representation will be due if a successful outcome is attained on your behalf. Learn more about our services by calling (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400.
Our law office is proud to serve communities throughout California. See reviews and comments by our former clients on these ranking platforms:
We are honored to be featured in the following groups as California sector members:
The skilled and compassionate legal team from AutoAccident.com believe that surviving family members deserve justice and maximum financial compensation for the loss of their close relative. To accomplish that, we will work diligently to obtain it and provide survivors with the guidance they need during this difficult time. To find out how we have assisted families with past cases, visit our Case Verdicts/Settlements page.
Photograph Source: “Rodnae” on Pexels
:ds llo [cs 706]