Two Dead in Fiery Head-on Collision Near Corcoran
Two men were killed in a head-on crash that ended with one vehicle bursting into flames on the evening of Tuesday, January 24, 2023. The accident occurred shortly before 7:00 p.m. near Corcoran in Kings County. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the driver of a Ford Escape was traveling north on 10th Avenue near Niles Avenue, while a driver in a Toyota Corolla was heading south on 10th.
Details of the Fatal Fiery Accident
Officers said for unknown reasons, the two vehicles collided head-on. The Toyota came to a stop on the shoulder while the Ford overturned to its side and burst into flames. The entire car was engulfed by the fire.
Officials said two people who witnessed the accident rushed to pull the Ford driver out of the burning car through the sunroof. The good samaritans suffered severe burn injuries during the rescue process.
The Toyota driver died from his injuries at the scene, and the Ford driver was taken to a local hospital, where he later died. The identities of the two drivers have not been released pending notification of the next of kin.
Officials did not say how fast both drivers were traveling or what may have caused the crash. It is unknown if drugs or alcohol are a factor. The accident is still under investigation.
Car Accidents and Wrongful Death
Those who have lost a loved one in an accident are often left in a difficult situation. Not only do they need to process their grief, but financial hardships stemming from the wrongful death can be overwhelming. Medical and funeral expenses can pile up, and many are unsure how to move forward and regain their family’s well-being. For these reasons, it is crucial to consult a compassionate and knowledgeable wrongful death attorney to discuss your legal options.
Wrongful Death Compensation
When someone is killed in an accident caused by another person’s negligent actions, the decedent’s family may be able to pursue compensation for their damages and losses. These include economic damages such as medical expenses, funeral and burial costs, loss of household services, loss of financial support, and the loss of benefits expected to be received by the heirs. Noneconomic damages such as pain and suffering, mental anguish, and loss of companionship may also be recovered.
Who Can File for Wrongful Death?
In California, only certain surviving family members can file wrongful death compensation from the negligent party. This includes the spouse or children of the decedent. If such family members do not exist, the parents, putative spouse, stepchildren, or those who depended on the deceased for more than half of their income may be able to bring a wrongful death claim.
Watch the YouTube video below to learn more about wrongful death claims.
How an Injury Attorney Can Help You
Navigating the legal process of a wrongful death claim can be overwhelming, especially during a time of grief. You and your family deserve this time to collect yourselves and grieve.
If you have lost a family member in an accident caused by someone else’s negligence, it is essential to take legal action promptly. Because California has a two-year statute of limitations to file a wrongful death claim, contacting an experienced Fresno wrongful death attorney is critical. Your lawyer can advise you of your legal options and protect your right to a favorable recovery.
Fresno Personal Injury Attorney
I’m Ed Smith, a Fresno personal injury lawyer. Suffering severe injuries or losing a loved one in an accident is never easy. If you have been hurt or a family member was killed in an accident due to another’s negligence, call our law firm at (559) 377-7676 or (800) 404-5400 to discuss pursuing compensation for your losses. Our experienced legal team can provide free, friendly advice on how to bring a claim.