Merced, CA (December 20, 2023) Samuel Schesley, a Kent, Washington resident, was driving on Highway 99, just south of Sultana Drive, when he hit a pedestrian. The fatal collision occurred on Wednesday, December 13th, at approximately 9:18 p.m., according to authorities.
33-year-old Schesley pulled over and waited for police officers to arrive, following the accident. California Highway Patrol Officers Eric Zuniga said the pedestrian was struck in the southbound lanes of Highway 99. It seems that Schesley wasn’t the only driver who hit the pedestrian, but officers believe that multiple vehicles hit them.
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Schesley was driving a 2020 Ford van, heading south in the No. 2 lane of Highway 99, according to Officer Zuniga. Suddenly, the pedestrian began moving across the highway, right in front of Schesley’s van. He tried to swerve to avoid hitting the pedestrian, but it didn’t work and the pedestrian was hit by the van.
Officer Zuniga said it is still unknown why the pedestrian was in the roadway. This accident remains under investigation and the California Highway Patrol is working to figure out what other vehicles struck the pedestrian on Highway 99 that day.
Liability In Merced Pedestrian Accidents
Thousands of pedestrians are killed or seriously injured every year in pedestrian accidents. According to the Centers for Disease Control, “An estimated 137,000 pedestrians were treated in the emergency departments for nonfatal crash-related injuries in 2017. Per trip, pedestrians are 1.5 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to be killed in a car crash.” There are a number of factors that could lead to a pedestrian collision including:
–Speeding
–Drunk driving
–Driver distraction
–Inclement weather
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians. The family of any victim that died in a pedestrian collision may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and suffering. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Pedestrian Accident In Merced
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the pedestrian killed in this accident. Any person that may have information about what happened should reach out to police. There needs to be some accountability for what happened.
Have you or someone you care about been injured in a 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 (866) 9454286.
