MADERA COUNTY, CA (AUGUST 26, 2023): A man standing outside his vehicle and a driver of another vehicle were killed during a collision in Madera County on Avenue 17 Friday night.
The Madera-area California Highway Patrol reports that it responded to a call made at around 9:46 p.m. from Avenue 17 near Crescent Drive. A man driving a Ford F-250 arrived at a friend’s house and was unloading corn from the vehicle’s bed when a driver of a red Nissan entered the area traveling eastbound.
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The driver of the Nissan, identified as a 22-year-old man, then drove onto the shoulder of the road and collided with the rear of the Ford truck. The truck’s driver was then stuck, and suffered fatal injuries.
The driver of the Nissan continued to drive recklessly before stopping in the middle of Avenue 17. The car’s engine compartment then ignited in flames, prompting bystanders to use a fire extinguisher and buckets of water to extinguish the fire. Bystanders then worked to get the 22-year-old driver out of his vehicle.
The man was able to be retrieved from his vehicle, but succumbed to critical injuries. Investigators say the driver did not have his seatbelt on during the collision.
Authorities continue to investigate the nature of this collision on Avenue 17 in Madera County. It is unknown whether drugs or alcohol contributed to the crash.
Liability In Madera 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 A Collision on Avenue 17 In Madera County
We at Accident News Now extend our condolences to the family of the two men killed in this tragic collision. Any person that may have information about the accident should reach out to the police. A thorough investigation must be conducted for the sake of all involved.
Do you need more information about a Madera 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 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.
