Kerman, CA (September 29, 2024) – A tragic accident occurred on Sunday morning at the intersection of Goldenrod Avenue and Jensen Avenue near Kerman, resulting in the death of 27-year-old Roberto Vasquez of Fresno and injuring three others.
Accident Details: The Fresno County Coroner’s Office confirmed that Vasquez was driving a Toyota Tundra when he failed to stop at a stop sign at the intersection. A woman driving with her two children was crossing the intersection at the same time. She did not have a stop sign. They collided, and the impact caused both vehicles to roll over. Vasquez was pronounced dead at the scene, while the woman and her children were transported to the hospital with minor to moderate injuries.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has described this intersection as dangerous, urging drivers to exercise caution when navigating the area.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination.
Dangerous Intersection and Potential Negligence: The CHP’s comments regarding the hazardous nature of the intersection may raise questions about whether local authorities have taken sufficient steps to prevent accidents in this area. If previous incidents have occurred at the same location, there may be grounds to investigate whether additional safety measures, such as traffic signals or warnings, should have been implemented. In some cases, local governments can be held liable if they fail to address known hazards on the road.
Mechanical Failure: Investigators should inspect the Toyota to determine if a malfunction or defect prevented Vasquez from stopping at the stop sign. If so, the manufacturer or service provider may be liable if negligence is found.
Liability for Running the Stop Sign: Vasquez’s failure to stop at the stop sign may be a critical factor in determining fault for the crash. In California, drivers must obey all traffic signs, and failure to do so can result in liability for any damages or injuries caused.
Wrongful Death Claim: The family of Roberto Vasquez may have the option to file a wrongful death claim. Although Vasquez’s failure to stop may have contributed to the crash, investigating the circumstances and potential road hazards could reveal other contributing factors. Under California’s comparative negligence laws, they could still recover partial compensation if another party’s negligence contributed to the crash.
Personal Injury Claim: Additionally, the mother and her children may be able to file personal injury claims if negligence is found.
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Roberto Vasquez during this difficult time. I wish the injured individuals a fast recovery.
Source: Your Central Valley