Update | Fatal Head-On Collision Involving Tesla Model Y in Fresno County

Home » Update | Fatal Head-On Collision Involving Tesla Model Y in Fresno County
October 09, 2023
Edward Smith

Fatal Crash Tesla Model Y Near Clovis

One driver suffered fatal injuries, and another was seriously injured in a recent car crash that involved a Tesla Model Y and a Chevrolet Silverado near Clovis in Fresno County. The auto accident occurred on October 4, 2023, at approximately 10:30 p.m. on State Route 168 in the vicinity of East Shepherd Avenue, the California Highway Patrol reported.

Information on the Fatal Crash That Involved a Tesla Model Y Near Clovis

An initial release indicated that a Prather man, age 59, was driving the 2020 Chevrolet Silverado westbound on SR-168. At the same time, a Prather man, age 32, was behind the wheel of the Tesla Model Y headed eastbound on State Route 168. For unknown reasons, one of the vehicles reportedly veered into the oncoming traffic lane and was involved in a head-on collision with the other car.

The impact of the collision allegedly caused the Tesla to be engulfed in flames, CHP traffic officers reported. Sadly, the Tesla Model Y driver, 32-year-old Prather resident Billy Copple, was declared deceased at the crash site. The motorist of the Chevrolet was taken to a hospital in Fresno for treatment of injuries described as serious but non-life-threatening. An investigation into the fatal head-on collision is ongoing by authorities.

Seeking Financial Compensation in a Motor Vehicle Collision Case

An individual injured or a family deprived of a close relative due to a traffic crash may be compensated for their losses. The amount of compensation an injured party or surviving family member may receive for a car accident in California will depend on the facts and circumstances specific to the matter. It is essential to retain legal counsel in these cases as there are filing criteria and deadlines that must be met. For instance, if the case is not settled with the other side, claimants must file in civil court within two years from the time of injury or death. This is by CCP 335.1. For more details, contact a skilled attorney.

What Types of Products Liability Cases Can Be Made for a Car Accident?

Other parties and entities may be held liable for a motor vehicle collision aside from the at-fault driver. For instance, a government entity may be held accountable if insufficient roadway maintenance or hazardous road design plays a contributing role in a car wreck. These cases are subject to a deadline of six months instead of the general two-year statute of limitations. Conversely, an automaker or manufacturer may be held liable for damages if faulty motor vehicle parts and equipment contributed to a car accident. These cases may arise due to:

  • Design: A mistake in the design process may make a product become hazardous when utilized for intended purposes or for other foreseeable uses.
  • Manufacturing: During the manufacturing process, it is possible that defects are made to a product that may make it become inherently dangerous for consumer use.
  • Labeling: Products on the market are subject to regulation, one of which includes labeling. There must be sufficient instructions or warnings on product labeling to ensure safe usage.

Traumatic injuries or even death may occur in a traffic collision caused by a vehicular defect. Faulty vehicle parts may include insufficient roof crush resistance in a rollover collision (outlined in FMVSS 216), sudden unintended acceleration from a defective electronic control system or flawed accelerator pedal, airbag failure, defects in the self-driving car software or components, and more. A knowledgeable California products liability lawyer can conduct an independent investigation to identify the appropriate defendants in your case and seek full compensation on your behalf.

Tesla Model Y Accident Lawyer in California

At AutoAccident.com, we have experienced and compassionate California Tesla Model Y accident lawyers who can help you with your potential case. If you were injured or lost a family member in a crash where a Tesla vehicle was involved, please reach out to our law office to schedule a free case evaluation at (916) 921-6400 or (800) 404-5400. We operate on contingency, meaning that there is never a fee for our services unless and until we obtain a favorable result at the resolution of the case. Do not delay, and contact us today to receive free, friendly case advice from one of our injury lawyers.

Photograph Attribution: MyriamsFotos on Pixabay

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