Tulare County, CA (September 18, 2023) A man died early Friday morning after his vehicle collided with a semi-truck on Highway 99. The accident occurred before 4:00 a.m., according to the California Highway Patrol.
A 40-year-old man was driving a 2015 Kia north on Highway 99, just south of Drive 92B near Tangus Ranch. Simultaneously, a 66-year-old Delano resident, was driving a 2015 Freightliner, pulling a set of trailers. The Freightliner was also headed north on Highway 99.
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Authorities said the Kia was speeding to try and pass the Freightliner. The Kia ended up crashing into several barrels of water along the highway’s median. It then struck the left front side of the Freightliner.
The man driving the Kia was pronounced dead at the scene by emergency crews.
The driver of the Freighliner stopped on the shoulder. He wasn’t injured in the collision, but cooperated with police officers.
Liability In Tulare County 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 Tulare County Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the man killed in this collision. 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 Tulare County 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 (844) 966-0965.