Merced County, CA (November 28, 2023) – 22 year old Bryant Noyola and 49 year old Norma Rodriguez of Modesto were tragically killed in a violent head-on crash in Merced County, California. According to the Modesto Bee, the accident took place on Highway 99 at around 4:15 a.m. on Thursday, November 23rd.
Police reports indicate that Noyola was driving his 2002 Hyundai Elantra in the wrong direction on the highway at a high rate of speed, estimated between 80 and 90 miles per hour. At the same time Rodriguez was riding in a Chevy Tahoe travelling in the correct direction at about 65 mph. The two vehicles collided at high speed causing severe damage to both.
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Paramedics were promptly dispatched to the horrific scene and began assisting the injured. Sadly Noyola and Rodriguez were unable to be saved and both were pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Tahoe, 43 year old Gonzalo Ahumbra, sustained major injuries and his two other passengers, 19 year old Cecilia Jimenez and an unnamed 17 year old girl suffered moderate injuries. All survivors were transported to Doctors Medical Center in Modesto for emergency aid.
The deaths of Bryant Noyola and Norma Rodriguez are under investigation by the CHP, including whether Noyola was under the influence of drugs or alcohol when he made the choices he did.
Liability In Merced 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 the Deaths of Bryant Noyola and Norma Rodriguez
We at Accident News Now extend our condolences to the families and friends of those killed in this crash, and wish those injured a full and speedy recovery. 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 Merced 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 those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need assistance after an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (844) 966-0965.