Merced County, CA (November 24, 2023) – Two people were tragically killed and three others were injured on Thursday, November 23rd, in a severe crash in Merced County, California. According to news source ABC30, the accident took place at approximately 4:10 a.m.
The California Highway Patrol reported that a man in his 20s was driving in the wrong direction on the road in his Hyundai, traveling north in the southbound lane. This caused him to collide head on with a Chevrolet SUV carrying four people. The force of the crash caused the SUV to flip over and catch on fire.
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Sadly, the driver of the Hyundai was not wearing his seatbelt and sustained fatal injuries in the crash. Additionally, a woman in her 30s, the front seat passenger of the SUV, also sustained fatal injuries. Both were pronounced dead on the scene. Paramedics responded to assist the other three occupants of the SUV, airlifting them to the trauma center in Modesto.
Police are investigating this severe crash in Merced County.
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 Severe Crash in Merced County
We at Accident News Now extend our condolences to the families of those killed, and wish the injured 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 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.
