Two Killed in Modesto Taco Truck Crash
Two people were killed in a Modesto taco truck crash on the early morning of June 15, 2019. The pedestrian accident occurred shortly after 1:40 a.m. at the intersection of D Street and 14th Street. Officers from the Modesto Police Department ran the plates of a vehicle near Lakewood Avenue and Briggsmore Avenue. The car was reported as stolen out of the Bay Area. After police attempted to pull the driver over, the motorist drove away. The pursuit continued for a short time until the driver reached Yosemite Boulevard and crashed into a carport for a mobile food truck, Tacos Vallarta. Sadly, two people were hit by the vehicle at Tacos Vallarta and pronounced dead at the scene. Officials have identified the decedents as 32-year-old Melchor Leyva Fong and 31-year-old Pedro “Peter” Gil, both residents of Modesto. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families of Mr. Leyva Fong and Mr. Gil in their time of loss.
Investigation of the Modesto Taco Truck Crash
Authorities have reported that the people in the stolen vehicle, a 22-year-old Daly City man and a 24-year-old San Francisco man, were arrested and booked into the Stanislaus County Jail on homicide charges. Reports have said that both men are being held without bail. Moreover, a GoFundMe page has been created by the family of Mr. Leyva Fong to cover his funeral expenses.
Who Pays for Damages Caused by a Stolen Car?
Insurance coverage can become extremely complicated when stolen property is involved in a Modesto auto accident. Some insurers might deny liability for the crash if it was not caused by their insured, particularly if the vehicle is stolen. This can leave those involved in such situations in a financial predicament. However, those who carry uninsured/underinsured motorist protection may be protected in these situations. This type of coverage may help pay for damages caused by a driver who has little to no insurance. If you are unsure whether your car insurance will cover your losses, contact an experienced Modesto auto accident attorney to review your policy and discuss your potential options for recovery.
What is Wrongful Death?
Wrongful death is a legal term meaning a loss of life resulting from the negligence or fault of someone else. Deaths caused by auto accidents, medical malpractice, or pedestrian accidents may all be considered as wrongful death under the law.
Who Can File a Wrongful Death Lawsuit in California?
A wrongful death claim is generally filed by the family of the person who passed away. Under California Code of Civil Procedure Section 377.60, the spouse, domestic partner, and children of the deceased are eligible to bring a wrongful death lawsuit. Others who were financially dependent on the decedent for at least 50 percent may also pursue a claim. These include the stepchildren, parents, putative spouse, or the putative spouse’s children. To learn more on who is eligible to bring a wrongful death case, watch the below video.
What Damages Can Be Recovered in a California Wrongful Death Case?
Each wrongful death claim is unique. There are various calculations and considerations involved in such cases. However, two types of losses are standard in wrongful death lawsuits. They include economic and noneconomic damages, such as:
- Expenses associated with a loved one’s death, such as funeral and medical bills
- Goods and services the deceased would have provided such as lawn maintenance and childcare
- Loss of a loved one’s financial contributions and inheritance
- Loss of training, care, advice, protection, and guidance
- Lost benefits such as pension plans and health insurance
- Mental anguish or emotional suffering endured by the survivor of the deceased
- Punitive damages may be sought in cases involving egregious conduct
Calculations of wrongful death damages are based upon objective evidence. This must be determined through the expertise of accountants, economists, or other qualified witnesses.
Is Getting a Lawyer Worth It?
Families may not know where to turn to after the unexpected loss of someone they love. In such situations, a family may seek the assistance of an experienced wrongful death attorney in Modesto. When choosing a lawyer, it is essential to look for a lawyer who has both the resources and experience needed to litigate even the most challenging wrongful death cases. This is necessary for providing the family with peace of mind and financial relief after a loved one’s unexpected death.
Personal Injury Lawyers in Modesto
I’m Ed Smith, a Modesto personal injury lawyer. When an auto accident happens, no one is likely prepared for the consequences. This is especially true when catastrophic injuries or death are involved. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured or killed in a car accident caused by the fault of another driver, I am here to provide you with free, friendly advice. Please call me at (209) 227-1931 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400.
Looking at client ratings and reviews for a law office can help you decide whether that law firm is the right fit for you and your case. You can read ours at:
I am proud to be a member of several legal groups, including the National Association of Distinguished Counsel and the Million Dollar Advocates. Members of the first association are attorneys who are believed to exhibit the highest standards of legal excellence. Inclusion in the other forum is by membership only and recognizes attorneys who have won over $1 million for a client.
To learn more about our law office and past cases we have handled, go to our Verdicts and Settlements page.
Photograph Credit: By “StockSnap” via Pixabay
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