Passenger Killed in Lodi Broadside Collision
A female passenger was killed in a Lodi broadside collision on the evening of July 6, 2019. The incident occurred shortly after 7:15 p.m. at the intersection of Locust Tree Road and Kettleman Lane just east of Highway 99. A preliminary report by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) implied that a Kia traveling northbound along Locust Tree Road failed to stop for a stop sign at the intersection. The Kia later collided with the passenger side of an eastbound Ford. A female who was riding in the front passenger seat suffered serious injuries in the crash. She was transported to a local hospital, where she passed away. Officials have identified the decedent as 50-year-old Rosa Mendoza of Lodi. I would like to send my healing thoughts and prayers to the loved ones of Ms. Mendoza during this difficult time.
What is a Lodi Broadside Collision?
A broadside collision, also known as a T-bone or side-impact crash, occurs when one vehicle is struck from the side. This type of accident often happens when a driver is proceeding through an intersection, and a car heading perpendicular to them crashes into them from the side. Since the sides of vehicles offer little protection to occupants inside, this can result in catastrophic injury or death in some cases.
Does Car Insurance Cover Passengers in a Lodi Broadside Collision?
Riding as a passenger in a car driven by a relative or friend can bring up some concerns. You may be hesitant to file a claim. What some people may not know is that the damages will be paid by the insurance company, not the loved one who was driving. Injured passengers may be able to seek compensation from multiple parties depending on the circumstances of the car wreck. An injured passenger may be able to bring a claim against:
- The insurer of the motorist who was found at fault for the crash
- The insurance carrier of the owner of the vehicle that caused the accident
- The insurance company of the car the passenger was riding in
- The insurance policy carried by the passenger for their personal vehicle if they have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. This type of protection is applicable in cases where the at-fault driver has little to no insurance to cover resulting losses
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Claim in California?
When a loved one loses their life in a car accident due to the negligence of another, a wrongful death claim may be filed for damages incurred. Under California law, a wrongful death lawsuit may be pursued by the spouse, domestic partner, or children of the deceased. If such individuals are nonexistent, then the putative spouse, stepchildren, parents, and children of the putative spouse may be eligible to file. For more details on who can bring a claim for wrongful death, watch the below video.
How Does a Wrongful Death Settlement Work?
A settlement for a wrongful death case is intended to offset the emotional and financial hardship suffered by surviving family members of the deceased. This includes:
- Costs of medical treatment leading up to a loved one’s death
- Expenses for a decedent’s funeral and burial
- Loss of household services such as cleaning, cooking, and childcare
- Lost future financial support that the deceased would have provided had he or she survived
- Mental anguish and emotional suffering
- Punitive damages may be recovered for a wrongful death car accident caused by an egregious act such as driving under the influence
How Can a Wrongful Death Attorney Help Our Family?
The loss of a loved one can be overwhelming despite the circumstances. When that death resulted from the reckless or negligent actions of someone else, the grief is often compounded by anger and frustration. As you are coming to terms with your loss, you should take time to care for yourself and your family. It is also essential to have an experienced Lodi wrongful death attorney at your side during this time. An attorney will work to ensure your rights are protected and all settlement negotiations are fair while you and your family focus on grieving and recovering.
Wrongful Death Lawyer in Lodi
I’m Ed Smith, a Lodi wrongful death lawyer. Suffering injuries or losing a loved one in a car accident is never easy. If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in an auto accident due to the negligence of another, please call me at (209) 227-1931 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400 for free, friendly advice.
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