Merced County, CA (December 20, 2024) – Authorities have identified Concepcion Montellano, 32, as one of the victims in a fatal head-on collision on Interstate 5 last December. An infant passenger in the vehicle also died as a result of the crash.
Accident Details: The crash occurred around 6:30 p.m. on Interstate 5 near State Route 165. A southbound 2003 Jeep Grand Cherokee crossed a grass median and traveled into the northbound lanes. The reason for this is not clear. It collided head-on with a 2019 Dodge Ram 1500. Two passengers, Montellano and the infant, were ejected from the vehicle. Montellano died at the scene. The infant was transported to Valley Children’s Hospital but sadly succumbed to injuries later. The driver of the Jeep sustained moderate injuries, and two occupants of the Dodge were transported to hospitals with major injuries.
Investigation: The driver of the Jeep, identified as Leonardo Lopez-Lazara, 31, of Reno, Nevada, was arrested on December 21. He faces charges of felony gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, DUI combined alcohol and drug causing bodily injury, and driving without a license.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination.
- Driving Under the Influence: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious crime that often results in both criminal and civil liability. Driving under the influence violates California’s traffic laws and breaches drivers’ duty to operate their vehicles safely. Impaired drivers are less capable of maintaining control, making safe decisions, and reacting to hazards.
- Loss of Control: Investigators must determine why the Jeep veered into the northbound lanes. Was it a result of the impairment? Or was there a road defect or mechanical malfunction involved?
Possible Claims: The families of Montellano and the infant may be able to pursue wrongful death lawsuits to seek compensation for funeral costs, loss of companionship, and emotional trauma. The injured occupants of the Dodge may also bring personal injury claims for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Seatbelts: Because of their ejection from the vehicle, investigators may examine whether Montellano and the infant were wearing seatbelts or properly restrained. If there was a malfunction in the seatbelt, this may implicate the vehicle manufacturer. If it was an individual choice not to wear the seatbelt, California’s comparative negligence laws may be involved, which can reduce recoverable compensation.
I extend my deepest condolences to the families of Concepcion Montellano and the infant during this challenging time. I also hope for a full recovery for the injured victims.
Source: Merced-Sun Star