Fresno County, CA (June 29, 2024) – A fatal motorcycle crash occurred late Friday night in Fresno County, resulting in the death of a motorcyclist and the arrest of a teenager for DUI. The incident, reported by the California Highway Patrol, occurred around 9:00 p.m. at the intersection of Mount Whitney Ave and East St near Laton.
According to authorities, a 17-year-old boy driving a pick-up truck allegedly failed to stop or yield at a stop sign on East St (ST) as he entered the intersection, colliding with a motorcyclist traveling west on Mount Whitney Ave (HWY). The impact proved fatal for the motorcyclist, who succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. Law enforcement arrested the teenage driver at the scene on suspicion of driving under the influence. The identity of the deceased motorcyclist has not yet been released pending notification of the family.
Understanding Wrongful Death Laws in California
Under California law, a death is classified as a “wrongful death” when it is caused by the wrongful act, neglect, or fault of another individual or entity. Additionally, wrongful death encompasses injuries to a pregnant woman that lead to the death of a fetus or stillborn birth. California statutes dictate that if a deceased person could have pursued damages had they not passed away, the representative of their estate has the right to seek legal recourse following their death. Several parties are eligible to bring forth wrongful death claims against negligent parties. These parties include:
– The spouse of the deceased victim.
– The surviving children of the deceased.
– The descendants of the deceased.
– The parents and grandparents of the deceased victim.
– The siblings of the deceased.
– Stepchildren of the deceased.
If you fall into any of the categories mentioned above, you have a three-year window from the date of death to initiate legal proceedings against the negligent party. Delaying the filing of a legal claim can weaken your case, as crucial evidence may be lost, and witnesses may become unavailable. It is advisable to take prompt legal action to safeguard the integrity of your case. Seeking legal guidance is essential for victims and their families to navigate the complex legal process and pursue rightful compensation.
If you have lost a loved one in a fatal car accident, a knowledgeable California wrongful death attorney at J.G. Winter Law is prepared to help. With a steadfast commitment to client advocacy and a proven track record of success, we offer personalized legal representation to individuals injured due to negligence.
To schedule a consultation with an experienced attorney at J.G. Winter Law, please call 844-517-0586. Our compassionate team is dedicated to guiding you through the legal process and ensuring that your rights and interests are vigorously defended.
Note: The information in this publication is sourced from secondary materials such as news reports, blogs, police records, and eyewitness accounts. J.G. Winter Law has not independently confirmed these details. If you find inaccuracies or wish for the story to be removed, please contact us. We will quickly respond by correcting or removing the content as needed.
Disclaimer: The image featured in this post does not depict the incident mentioned. The purpose of this post is not to attract business, and it should not be interpreted as offering medical or legal counsel. In the event of an accident resulting in injury to yourself or a loved one, it’s crucial to obtain medical care without delay, followed by a consultation with an attorney to understand your legal options.
