Keyes, CA (May 6, 2024) — Ezequiel Gonzalez Mejia, 41, of Los Angeles, sustained serious injuries after being struck by a commercial truck while standing next to a car on Highway 99 early Monday morning. The incident occurred just before 6 a.m. near the west side of southbound Highway 99, north of Keyes Road, according to the California Highway Patrol (CHP).
Incident Overview: Mejia was standing beside a Kia sedan when he was struck by a Freightliner box truck driven by Raul Urbano Jr., 33, from Woodlake, Tulare County. The collision left Mejia with major injuries, and emergency responders transported him to Doctors Medical Center in Modesto. The nature of his injuries was not disclosed in the news release. Urbano was not injured and remained at the scene immediately south of the collision.
Authorities do not suspect alcohol or drugs as contributing factors. Emergency personnel found Mejia lying on the shoulder when they arrived, though the news release did not specify why Mejia had stopped on the freeway.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the incident to understand the circumstances leading to Mejia’s serious injuries. They will examine whether negligence or distraction may have played a role, and if so, Mejia could pursue a personal injury claim for medical expenses, emotional distress, and other damages.
I wish Mr. Mejia a thorough and speedy recovery. I also hope that the investigation reveals more information about the circumstances leading up to the crash.
Source: The Sacramento Bee