MODESTO, CA (May 13, 2022) – Dalton Binda, 32, of Turlock, was injured in a hit-and-run crash involving three vehicles, according to the California Highway Patrol.
The accident occurred around 9:00 a.m. on Albers Road around Dusty Lane.
Carlos Higuerra, 26, of Los Angeles, was driving a 2003 Volkswagen sedan with two other passengers when his car entered the southbound lane and struck Binda’s 2016 Nissan SUV.
Higuerra and his two other passengers exited their vehicle after crashing into Dalton Binda and fled toward a canal.
Stanislaus County sheriff’s deputies helped the CHP locate and apprehend the men before returning them to the scene of the accident.
Binda suffered minor injuries and was transported to Memorial Medical Center for treatment.
Higuerra also suffered minor injuries and will face felony DUI and hit-and-run charges. The two other passengers of the vehicle will not face charges.
Cheyenne Souta, 21, of Denair, was the third party involved in the accident. Her 2022 Kia sedan was struck by debris when Higuerra’s Volkswagen and Dalton Binda’s Nissan collided. She did not suffer any injuries.
Liability In Modesto 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 Modesto Car Accident
We at West Coast Trial Lawyers are wishing Dalton Binda a 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 suffered as a result of this accident.
Do you need more information about a Modesto 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 (888) 395-7234.