Newark Fatal Collision Claims Two Lives on Thornton Avenue

Two Deaths Reported in Newark Fatal Collision Near Hickory Street

A Newark fatal collision left two men dead after their vehicle had recently crashed into a tree, authorities confirmed. The crash occurred at approximately 5:28 p.m. along westbound Thornton Avenue near Hickory Street. According to officers with the Newark Police Department, a Toyota Prius was found at the scene with severe damage, and the passenger had been ejected during the impact. 

Newark Fatal Collision Cause Being Determined

Despite immediate emergency medical efforts by officers and Alameda County firefighters, both occupants died at the scene. The Alameda County Coroner’s Bureau identified the driver as a 33-year-old Hayward resident and the passenger as a male, 31,  from Union City. Investigators are working to determine whether speed or possible impairment contributed to the crash.

Recovering Wrongful Death Compensation

In California, the deceased passenger’s family may bring a wrongful death claim against the driver’s estate, provided evidence shows that the driver’s negligence caused the death. This claim is typically handled through the driver’s liability insurance or, if available, the driver’s estate assets.

Who Can File the Wrongful Death Claim

California law allows the spouse or partner, offspring, or dependent parents and stepchildren of the deceased passenger to file a wrongful death lawsuit. If none of these relatives survive, other qualified individuals or a personal representative for the deceased’s estate may be able to pursue the claim.

Proving Liability When the At-Fault Driver Is Deceased

The wrongful death claim must show that the driver acted negligently, such as speeding, violating traffic laws, or driving impaired, and that this negligence directly caused the passenger’s death in the Newark fatal collision. Investigators often rely on police reports, accident reconstruction, and other evidence, especially when both the driver and passenger have died and cannot provide firsthand accounts.

Sources of Compensation

If the driver left no estate, compensation after a Newark fatal collision typically comes from the at-fault driver’s auto liability insurance policy. If coverage is insufficient or unavailable, families may also look to their own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage.

Types of Damages Recoverable

Eligible surviving family members can seek compensation for:

• Funeral and burial expenses
• Loss of financial support and benefits
• Loss of love, companionship, and consortium
• Emotional suffering and loss of care or guidance

Filing a wrongful death claim requires acting within California’s statute of limitations, generally two years from the date of death.

Seeking Justice After a Wrongful Death in Newark

I’m Newark wrongful death lawyer Ed Smith. If you’ve lost a loved one in a fatal traffic collision, you and your family may be entitled to financial compensation. For free and friendly advice, please contact us at (510) 631-0200 or (800) 404-5400. You may also reach us through our online form. During your consultation, we will answer your questions, review your case, and discuss the path forward to seek justice and full compensation on behalf of your family.

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