Selma Man Killed in Truck Accident on Elm Avenue in Fresno County

Home » Selma Man Killed in Truck Accident on Elm Avenue in Fresno County
May 25, 2022
Edward Smith

Fatal Truck Accident on North Avenue

Officials in Fresno County reported a fatal truck accident on North Avenue and Elm Avenue in the early morning hours of Monday, May 23, 2022. The incident took place shortly before 3:00 a.m. and involved a big rig and a passenger vehicle.

Details on the Fatal Truck Accident on North Avenue in Fresno County

Officials from the California Highway Patrol indicated in a preliminary report that a man was driving a 2010 Mercury in the area when a truck driver was allegedly pulling into a driveway. The Mercury driver was reportedly unable to stop in time and collided with the trailer. The impact of the collision caused the vehicle to lodge underneath the trailer.

Sadly, the Mercury driver was declared deceased at the scene. Officials have identified the decedent as Jose Caratachea-Valencia, 52, of Selma. Additional information on the fatal truck accident in Fresno County has not yet been released by CHP traffic officers due to an investigation that remains ongoing.

What Families Should Know About Truck Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims

The unfortunate reality is that motor vehicle collisions lead to one too many fatalities in California and throughout the country. When a loss of life occurs because of a truck accident caused by the negligence of another party or entity, survivors may seek financial compensation through a wrongful death claim to help cover financial and intangible losses. These may include funeral service costs, loss of companionship, mental anguish, lost future financial support, bills for end-of-life treatment (recoverable through a survival action), and more. While no amount of money may ever undo the pain of losing a loved one or make up for the loss of that relationship, the compensation recovered in a wrongful death case can help provide surviving family members with a more secure future.

The wrongful death claims process is not always straightforward, as the laws that surround these actions are often challenging to navigate. Conversely, the insurance company representing the negligent truck driver, trucking company, and other party or entity may not have the best interests of surviving family members at heart. Insurers are businesses at the end of the day, and their focus is on protecting their bottom line. Remember that the stakes are high when a commercial truck accident results in a loss of life. Therefore, it is not uncommon for the insurer and defense counsel to dispute liability for the incident and resulting damages through various defense tactics.

It is useful to work with an experienced Fresno truck accident lawyer who can be your lost loved one’s voice and provide their account of the incident through an independent investigation and working with expert witnesses to prove liability. Your family can depend on your attorney to do what is right for you and your family because they truly understand your situation and how your loss has impacted your lives. With this, your lawyer will work to paint a picture of how your family has been affected by the big rig crash that resulted in the loss of your loved one by building a strong and compelling case for fair compensation. Accountability matters in these situations and is most often accomplished in the form of a wrongful death claim. For information on how to select a top attorney in your area, watch this video.

Wrongful Death Lawyer in Fresno

I’m Ed Smith, a Fresno wrongful death lawyer. Losing someone you love in a big rig crash that could have been prevented is devastating and painful. At AutoAccident.com, our team of personal injury lawyers in California understands what you and your family have been put through after a devastating accident. We are dedicated to providing a compassionate approach and legal services that are suited to your situation while we work to obtain a favorable outcome in your case. When your family turns to us for assistance, we will take the time to help you understand your rights and options for recovery after a truck accident has claimed the life of your close relative. Remember that our family is here for your family whenever you are prepared to take legal action, and we are only a phone call away. Get started today by calling (559) 377-7676 or (800) 404-5400 to speak with one of our accident attorneys and receive compassionate, free, and friendly advice on your case.

When searching for an attorney to represent you and your family, it is helpful to look for one that has a reputation in their community for delivering the personalized attention and case results their clients deserve. See our past reviews at the links below:

Our law firm has handled wrongful death and personal injury cases since 1982. We have the experience, skills, and resources to build a strong case for fair compensation on your behalf. Get an idea of how we have helped other families in similar situations obtain the justice and financial recovery they deserve by visiting our Settlements and Verdicts page.

In recognition of our work and dedication as injury lawyers, we have been invited to join as members of the following groups:

Image Credit: Pixabay User “Stock-Snap

:ds llo [cs 879]