Man Killed in Highway 180 Car Accident
A man was killed in a recent car accident on Highway 180 in Fresno, CA. The collision occurred along the eastbound lanes of Highway 180 near Peach Avenue. A westbound Toyota Sienna was reportedly involved in a head-on collision with an eastbound Toyota Tundra, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP). Medical assistance was requested at the scene of the car wreck. The driver of the Toyota Tundra, identified as a 32-year-old man, was pinned inside his vehicle and had to be extricated by emergency personnel. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment of serious injuries. Sadly, the driver of the Toyota Sienna was pronounced deceased at the scene by first responders. Officials have identified the decedent as 33-year-old Christopher Her of Fresno.
Loved One Forever Remembered
Christopher Her was a beloved member of his family. Those who knew and loved Mr. Her said he was a dedicated and caring husband, father, son, and brother. Loved ones also said he worked hard to help provide for his younger siblings, parents, and family, including his three children ages 2, 3, and 4. A GoFundMe page has been established by the family of Mr. Her to help cover his funeral expenses.
Loss of a Loved One in a Highway 180 Car Accident
The loss of someone you love in an auto accident is devastating and heartbreaking. When a loved one is suddenly taken from you due to the negligence or wrongdoing of another driver, your sorrow and grief may be compounded by frustration and anger. When dealing with a wide array of feelings and emotions, it may be challenging to consider taking legal action for your loss. However, you and your family may benefit from the assistance of an experienced wrongful death attorney in Fresno during this difficult time. An attorney can ensure you and your family are protected and not taken advantage of by insurance companies in your time of loss.
Does Car Insurance Cover Wrongful Death for a Highway 180 Car Accident?
A settlement for a wrongful death claim is generally paid by a negligent driver’s insurance company. If the at-fault party has little to no insurance, the family of the decedent may be able to file a claim against their car insurance policy if they have uninsured/underinsured motorist protection. Whether the case is covered through the first party or third party’s insurance carrier, the family may be compensated for two types of damages, economic and noneconomic. These include:
- Any bills related to end-of-life medical treatment received by the deceased (this may be recovered through a survival action)
- Costs of lost household services that were provided by the decedent to his or her family, such as childcare and lawn maintenance
- Expenses of a loved one’s funeral and burial
- Loss of inheritance and benefits, such as pension and health insurance
- Loss of parental guidance and training for surviving children
- Loss of the decedent’s affection, care, love, comfort, companionship, and protection suffered by surviving family members
- Lost future financial support for the family
For a brief overview of wrongful death cases, watch the below video.
How Long Do You Have to File for Wrongful Death?
A wrongful death action is subject to a specific deadline. This time limit is known as the statute of limitations, which is two years from the date of a loved one’s wrongful death. If the claim involves a government entity for a road defect, a notice of claim must be filed with the appropriate government agency within 180 days or six months from the time of the wrongful death car accident. This is by the California Government Code 911.2. If the time limit expires, the claim may be forever barred, and the family of the decedent may lose the right to claim monetary damages.
How Can a Lawyer Help Our Family?
A wrongful death claim may be challenging to navigate. Insurance companies often want to limit their liability or financial exposure when a wrongful death occurs. Insurance claims adjusters may also use tactics to undermine each aspect and loss discussed in the wrongful death case. This is why it is essential to have an experienced Fresno wrongful death attorney at your side. An attorney who is experienced in handling these types of cases knows how to overcome such tactics to ensure families are fully compensated for their loved one’s wrongful death.
Wrongful Death Lawyers in Fresno
I’m Ed Smith, a Fresno wrongful death lawyer. When a loved one is lost in a wrongful death car accident, it may be challenging to know who to turn for legal options and advice. If you have lost someone you love in a car accident and have questions or concerns about a wrongful death claim, please call me at (559) 377-7676 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400. I am here to provide you with compassionate, free, and friendly advice on how to move forward from your loss and what options you may have for recovery.
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I am a member of the National Association of Distinguished Counsel and the Million Dollar Advocates.
At our law office, we understand how much it means for surviving family members to receive fair compensation that helps cover unexpected expenses in their time of loss and grief. If you are interested in seeing how we have helped other families with their wrongful death cases, go to our Verdicts and Settlements page.
Photo Attribution: By “StockSnap” via Pixabay
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