Suspected Drunk Driver Causes Fatal Accident Near Turlock

Fatal Accident Near Turlock Occurs on Geer Road

Drunk driving is suspected as the cause of a head-on fatal accident near Turlock on June 9. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the collision occurred between Turlock and Hughson along Geer Road. Police said a woman in a Lexus, age 25, was going south along the road when it veered into the oncoming lane and struck a Toyota driver by a man, age 36. 

Investigation Underway in Fatal Accident Near Turlock

Both drivers died in the collision. Both were also using their seat restraints at the time the accident occurred. Authorities believe that alcohol consumption factored into the cause of the crash. The CHP traffic collision investigators are determining what happened.

Filing a Claim for Wrongful Death

Experiencing the loss of a loved one due to a wrongful death in a fatal accident near Turlock is an incredibly difficult time for families. Often, they may not consider filing a claim due to their overwhelming grief. However, as financial hardships become evident, particularly if the deceased was the primary provider, they may recognize the importance of seeking compensation.

Benefits of a Wrongful Death Claim

A wrongful death claim can assist families in recovering financially from their loss while providing a sense of justice and closure. These claims cover various expenses, including funeral and burial costs, and compensate surviving spouses and children for their lost emotional and financial support. Although it cannot alleviate their grief, it can significantly ease their financial struggles moving forward.

Filing Your Claim Before the Deadline

In California, it is crucial for those suffering a personal injury, including a wrongful death caused by a fatal accident near Turlock, to file their claim within the statute of limitations, which is two years from the date of the accident. Filing after this period results in the court refusing to hear the case. While most claims are settled with the at-fault party’s insurance company, some agencies may delay proceedings in hopes that the statute of limitations will expire. This stalling can leave families with insufficient time to file a lawsuit in court.

Wrongful Death Claim Eligibility in a Fatal Accident Near Turlock

The primary individuals eligible to file a wrongful death claim are the deceased’s spouse and children. This includes adopted and stepchildren who relied on the decedent for at least 50 percent of their support. The estate administrator also has the right to file a claim; however, only one claim is allowed per wrongful death incident, necessitating a decision on whether the family or the estate administrator will handle it. When the decedent has no spouse or children, their siblings and parents may file the claim.

Check out this video where Ed Smith explains the concept of a wrongful death claim:

Turlock Wrongful Death Attorney

I’m Ed Smith, a Turlock wrongful death attorney. When negligence by a driver causes a fatal collision with another person, the family has the right to recover damages by filing a wrongful death claim. Our accident lawyers can give you free and friendly advice and will review your case at no cost or obligation. Contact us at (209) 227-1931 or by calling (800) 404-5400. You also have the option of contacting us online. One of our experienced attorneys can answer your questions and tell you how to recover the compensation you deserve.

We are honored to be members of Distinguished Counsel and Million Dollar Advocates, prestigious organizations that accept only lawyers who have secured substantial awards for their clients. You can explore more about our successful track record by visiting Avvo, Google, Settlements and Verdicts, and Yelp to see testimonials and reviews from those we have assisted.

Photo attribution: Image by Myriams-Fotos from Pixabay

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