Ceres, CA (December 14, 2023) 89-year-old Leroy Don Smith and 36-year-old Youkhana Atrmiz were killed in a head-on collision in Ceres, according to authorities. The deadly crash happened at approximately 8:19 p.m. on Wednesday, December 13th, on Hatch Road, not too far from Ceres River Bluff Park.
A Toyota Prius and a Chrysler 300 were involved in this fatal accident, according to the Modesto Fire Department. The Chrysler was heading east when it crossed the double yellow lines into oncoming traffic. The Toyota was traveling west and didn’t have time to avoid the wrong-way Chrysler and the two vehicles crashed, head-on.
Two people in the Toyota and the driver of the Chrysler were all trapped, following the accident. Firefighters with the Modesto Fire Department arrived at the scene and used specialized tools to extricate all 3 victims.
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Youkhana Atrmiz, from Ceres, was driving the Chrysler, and sustained serious injuries. She was taken to a local hospital to receive treatment, but later succumbed to her injuries. Police officers at the scene reported that Atrmiz wasn’t wearing her seat belt at the time of the crash.
A 64-year-old woman from Castro Valley was driving the Toyota. She suffered major injuries and was also transported to a nearby hospital for treatment. She is currently listed in stable condition. Her passenger, however, 89-year-old Leroy Don Smith, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene, officers said.
This case is still under investigation as officers work to determine if alcohol, drugs or speed were factors in this deadly collision on Hatch Road in Ceres.
Liability In Ceres Car Accidents
Despite improved safety measures for cars, motor vehicle accidents remain one of the leading causes of serious injury and death in the United States. According to the CDC, “more than 32,000 people are killed and 2 million are injured each year from motor vehicle crashes.” There are a number of factors that could potentially contribute to a car accident including:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Inclement weather
- Dangerous turns
- Poorly designed roadways
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid causing accidents. This is especially true for commercial drivers that work for a city. A number of collisions are due to drivers that make dangerous left turns. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21801, the driver of any vehicle intending to turn left must yield the right of way traveling from the opposite direction close enough to pose a hazard.
If a negligent driver worked for a city, that city could potentially be liable in the event of an accident. Generally speaking, employers are vicariously liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that should be taken after a car accident.
- Photos of the accident site should be taken.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- A thorough independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of any victim that has died in a car accident may have legal recourse through a bodily injury claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and funeral expenses. It is essential that evidence is properly preserved after a car accident. A car accident attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Ceres Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the families of Leroy Don Smith and Youkhana Atrmiz. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all who have lost so much.
Do you need more information about a Ceres car accident? Our team of personal injury lawyers are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that negligent drivers are held to account for their actions. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (866) 945-4286.