Three Killed After Truck Accident in Fresno County
Three people were killed following a truck accident in Fresno County on the night of Tuesday, July 14, 2020. The big rig crash occurred in the area of South Cornelia Avenue and West Manning Avenue near Raisin City. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) received a 911 call of a crash involving a semi-truck transporting animal carcass and a Chrysler PT cruiser sedan around 9:30 p.m. The CHP said the tractor-trailer was traveling westbound on Manning Avenue, and the PT Cruiser was headed northbound on Cornelia Avenue. For unknown reasons, the big rig was involved in a collision with the PT Cruiser. The impact of the crash reportedly caused the 18-wheeler truck to overturn onto the PT Cruiser, crushing the vehicle and killing three of the four occupants inside. The truck driver and other passenger were transported to the hospital for treatment of unspecified injuries. The Fresno County Coroner’s Office has identified the decedents as 31-year-old Frank Sifuentes, 34-year-old Carlos Gonzalez, and 34-year-old Pedro Gonzalez, all residents of Fresno.
Losing a Loved One to Wrongful Death
No family ever wants to experience the loss of a loved one. When it happens unexpectedly, it can cause extraordinary grief for surviving family members, especially if it was the result of someone else’s fault. In California, wrongful death occurs when negligence results in the loss of life. In the case of a fatal truck accident, a trucker or trucking firm may be held financially accountable through a wrongful death case for damages incurred. While taking legal action may be the furthest idea from a survivor’s mind, retaining legal representation is essential early on in the wrongful death claims process.
Importance of Contacting an Attorney After a Truck Accident
The actions a surviving family member takes in the days and weeks following a fatal trucking accident are critical, particularly when seeking compensation for losses incurred. The faster you contact an experienced Fresno truck accident lawyer about starting a wrongful death truck accident case, the less likely you will have to deal with insurance claims adjusters or defense lawyers representing the trucker or trucking firm who do not have your best interests at heart. It is essential to take quick action because critical evidence may be destroyed or lost if you wait too long. Without this evidence, it can be challenging to prove your wrongful death trucking crash case to an insurance company, defense attorney, or jury. Lawyers representing truck firms will immediately investigate the fatal incident to dispute the value or validity of the case by claiming it was due to inattentive driving, unsafe passing, traveling in the blind spots of the large truck, and other reasons. A Fresno truck accident lawyer will conduct an independent investigation of the fatal big rig crash to ensure liability is not falsely pinpointed on your loved one. An attorney will also work diligently to ensure your rights are protected throughout the wrongful death claims process and that you and your family are fairly compensated for your loss. For details on what to look for in a reputable attorney, watch the video below.
How a Lawyer Can Help Your Family After a Loved One’s Wrongful Death
Dealing with commercial insurance carriers on your own can be stressful and challenging. Insurance companies representing trucking firms know you and your family may be facing emotional and financial hardship and may wish to settle your wrongful death claim quickly. Because of this, they may offer low-ball wrongful death settlement offers. Without an experienced attorney, you may be convinced to accept a settlement that does not take into account how much your loved one truly meant to you and your family. Keep in mind that truck companies and their insurers do not have your best interests at heart. They are businesses that are focused on protecting their bottom line. They are not worried about what the future will be like for you and your family without your loved one. When you work with a Fresno trucking accident attorney of AutoAccident.com, you will work with someone who has decades of experience dealing with trucking firms and insurance carriers. We will ensure you are advised of all our legal rights and options for recovery under California law.
Truck Accident Lawyer in Fresno
I’m Ed Smith, a Fresno truck accident attorney. If you have lost a loved one in a fatal trucking accident, contact an experienced attorney as soon as possible. You should never represent yourself and your family in a wrongful death lawsuit filed after a big rig crash since these cases are challenging. Insurance companies and trucking firms may take advantage of your vulnerable situation and offer you less than what you deserve. Having an attorney on your side means you can be guided through the wrongful death claims process and receive the justice and compensation you and your family need. To learn more about how a lawyer can help you in your time of loss, call (559) 377-7676 or (800) 404-5400. I am available anytime to discuss your case and provide you my compassionate, free, and friendly advice on how to move forward in your situation.
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