Merced County DUI Fatality
A Merced County DUI fatality recently occurred along Pacheco Boulevard and Highway 152 in Los Banos. The incident happened at approximately 3:44 in the morning on March 10 when a white Dodge Challenger was reportedly speeding east on Pacheco Boulevard. At the same time, a westbound Nissan Pathfinder was making a left-hand turn near the intersection of 10th Street. The driver of the Dodge allegedly broadsided the Nissan at more than 100 mph, causing the Nissan to split into two pieces. Three of the four parties in the Nissan, including the driver, were transported to local hospitals for treatment of serious injuries. Sadly, the fourth party of the Nissan was pronounced deceased at the scene. Officials have identified the decedent as 19-year-old Marlyne Vidales of Los Banos. I would like to send my heartfelt sympathy to the loved ones of Ms. Vidales in their time of loss and sorrow.
Accident Investigation
A preliminary report by the Los Banos Police Department suggested that the driver of the Dodge fled the scene on foot following the collision. He was located by officials a short time later at his home. Court records revealed that he has a long history of traffic infractions, speeding, and reckless driving. He is facing 16 charges for the incident, fourteen of which were reported to be felonies including gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, hit and run, and more.
Loved One Forever Remembered
Marlyne Vidales was a beloved friend and member of her family. She was considered a beautiful soul with a big heart by those who loved her. She always looked out for the best interests of others and would do anything for anyone, without any questions. A GoFundMe page has been established by the family of Ms. Vidales to help cover her funeral expenses. A separate GoFundMe page has also been created for a relative of Ms. Vidales who was also injured in the crash, Alexis Ledezma. The proceeds will help cover her medical costs for her surgeries.
Recovering Compensation in a Wrongful Death Claim
A family who has lost a loved one through the negligence of someone else should not have to undergo the financial consequences caused by the wrongful death car accident. When a collision is caused by the negligent acts of an intoxicated motorist, the surviving family members may be able to collect damages through a wrongful death claim. These include end-of-life medical care, funeral and burial expenses, loss of consortium for a surviving domestic partner or spouse, and loss of household services and future income for the family. Punitive damages may also be claimed if an egregious act caused the death. For details on which family members may be eligible to file for wrongful death, watch the following video.
Is There Enough Insurance?
In most cases, the insurance carrier of the at-fault party is responsible for covering subsequent losses. If that motorist lacks insurance or does not have sufficient insurance to cover the extent of damages, the injured party or family of the decedent may use their own auto insurance to cover these costs. This is only possible if the injured or deceased party has uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM). This type of coverage helps pay for damages caused by a driver who does not have insurance, has insufficient coverage, or flees the scene of a car wreck. Since filing a UM/UIM claim is not always straightforward, an experienced injury lawyer can help you through the process while you recover from your injuries or loss of your loved one.
Compensation Following a Merced County DUI Fatality
Cases of wrongful death can be complicated as responsible parties often dispute liability for the incident. Because of this, it is essential to seek assistance from an experienced wrongful death lawyer in Merced. An attorney who has years of experience handling wrongful death cases will know the best way to investigate the crash to properly determine liability and prepare your case for fair compensation. While no amount of compensation can replace the affection, love, and companionship of a loved one, financial compensation can make a difference in a family’s financial stability in the future.
Merced Personal Injury Lawyers
I’m Ed Smith, a Merced personal injury lawyer. The tragic loss of someone you love in a fatal drunk driving accident can deprive the family not only of the care and love of that person but of their financial support. In these situations, a family can turn to an experienced lawyer for assistance. Please call me at (209) 227-1931 or toll-free at (800) 404-5400 for compassionate, free and friendly advice.
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Image Source: By “StockSnap” via Pixabay / Merced County DUI Fatality
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