FRESNO, CA (August 10, 2022) – 48-year-old Ali Shabazz, a civil engineer who worked for Caltrans, was killed in a collision with Marquis Pratcher, 25, in Fresno today.
The accident occurred before midnight at California and San Diego Avenues near Mendota, which is east of Fresno, according to ABC 30 News.
California Highway Patrol officers have yet to determine how fast Marquis Pratcher was going when his Nissan Altima struck the side of Shabazz’s Caltrans truck.
Reports say that neither driver was wearing a seatbelt and both died of blunt force trauma injuries.
Ali Shabazz was on his way to a job on I-5 when the accident occurred.
Shabazz is survived by his wife, Nia, and their eight children.
Governor Gavin Newsom’s Office issued the following statement:
“We offer our deepest sympathies to his family and his many friends and Caltrans colleagues during this painful time.”
Shabazz is the second Caltrans employee to die on the job this year.
Caltrans has set up a fund for his family–you can visit the link here.
Liability In Fresno 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 Ali Shabazz and Marquis Pratcher’s Car Accident
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the families of Ali Shabazz and Marquis Pratcher. 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 Fresno car accident? Our team of personal injury attorneys 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.