Multi-Vehicle Collision Fatality on SR-4
On the morning of November 15, 2023, the California Highway Patrol reported a fatality in a multi-vehicle collision that occurred on SR-4 in San Joaquin County. The incident occurred shortly after 5:35 a.m. on State Route 4 and involved at least five vehicles, including a big rig.
Details on the Multi-Vehicle Collision Fatality on SR-4
A preliminary release indicated that a vehicle attempted to overtake slower-moving traffic. CHP officers noted weather conditions consisting of dense fog that morning. The vehicle was allegedly involved in a crash with an oncoming Volvo big rig. The impact of the collision allegedly propelled the car into eastbound traffic where it allegedly crashed into a Toyota and a Hyundai.
The first vehicle continued to veer out of control when it was struck by an oncoming Ford in the westbound lane. The first car came to a rest on its wheels in an embankment, officials reported. One party, a 35-year-old man from Stockton, was pronounced deceased at the crash site. Additional information has not yet been released by the CHP due to an ongoing investigation.
Seeking Financial Compensation in a Multi-Vehicle Collision Case
The driver who failed to uphold their duty of care owed to others in their surroundings and caused the multi-car crash is likely to bear responsibility for the incident. While liability may be clear in some cases, such as those involving an initial crash causing a chain reaction accident, others may not be straightforward. An in-depth analysis of the facts and circumstances of a multi-vehicle collision is essential to reach a fair decision for the parties involved in the incident. This is especially the case when the involved drivers dispute liability for the crash.
Once liability has been properly established, the extent of economic and non-economic damages must be proven through clear and compelling evidence. Key pieces of evidence commonly used to prove and support damages in an accident case include medical records, eyewitness statements, police reports, photos and videos, property damage invoices, expert witness testimony, and more. Eligible claimants may seek reimbursement of losses, including medical expenses, pain and suffering, lost earnings, diminished earning potential, and more.
Many multi-vehicle collision cases may pose the question of whether there is sufficient liability coverage to pay for the resulting losses. Uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage is particularly important in these matters, as there may only be one driver responsible for the entire incident. As such, there may be insufficient coverage, particularly if the driver carries state minimum coverage limits or does not have auto insurance at all. Claimants may fall back on their UM/UIM protection to seek reimbursement for their losses. For more information, contact an experienced accident attorney near you.
Importance of Hiring an Attorney for a Multi-Car Crash Case
If an injured party or a surviving family member is seeking financial compensation for losses, retaining legal counsel may be a wise decision. Determining liability for a multi-vehicle accident may be challenging for a claimant to handle on their own. Claimants should not depend on the insurer to be fair when it comes to assigning fault in a multi-car crash and paying out claims for damages. Furthermore, insurance carriers do not have the best interests of claimants at heart, whereas an experienced accident attorney can work diligently to obtain the best outcome possible for their client.
Each traffic collision is unique, and assigning fault in a multi-vehicle accident is not a straightforward process. There may be more than one party that may bear responsibility for a crash. An attorney can conduct an independent and thorough investigation to identify potentially negligent parties and collect evidence before it is lost or altered. With clear and compelling evidence to build the strongest case possible, an attorney can demonstrate the opposing party’s negligence and how the incident affected their client emotionally and financially.
Personal Injury Lawyer in Stockton
The Stockton personal injury lawyers at our law firm have helped families in San Joaquin County and across California obtain successful recoveries in accident cases, including those involving multi-vehicle collisions. Our legal team is prepared to use our knowledge, skills, and resources to obtain the justice and financial compensation you need following a crash. Contact our law office today for free, friendly case advice from one of our experienced and knowledgeable attorneys by dialing (209) 227-1931 or (800) 404-5400. We are available to assess your situation and go over your options.
Picture Source: Pexels.com User – PavelD
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