Salinas, CA (January 28, 2025) – A tragic accident early Tuesday morning just outside Salinas claimed the life of 41-year-old Maria Morales.
Accident Details: The collision, involving a white and red Ford Transit ambulance owned by American Medical Response, occurred at approximately 3:29 AM on Abbott Street, south of Harris Road. According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the ambulance, driven by a 33-year-old from Templeton, was traveling southbound on Abbott Street when Morales stepped into the roadway directly in front of the vehicle. Despite the driver’s attempt to swerve and avoid her, the front right of the ambulance struck Morales, resulting in fatal injuries.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. The investigation will likely focus on determining why Morales stepped into the roadway. Was she distracted? Did the ambulance driver have sufficient time to react and avoid the collision?
- Pedestrian Duty of Care: Pedestrians are responsible for exercising caution and following traffic laws when crossing roadways. This duty includes using crosswalks when available and ensuring it is safe to cross before entering traffic.
- Driver’s Duty of Care: Drivers, including ambulance drivers, have a duty to operate their vehicles with reasonable care and avoid accidents. Emergency vehicle drivers responding to calls are granted certain exemptions from traffic laws as long as they do so safely.
- Road Conditions: Were there any road defects or visibility issues? If the road was poorly lit, it may have been hard for the ambulance to see Morales. Also, if the sidewalk was defective or obstructed, Morales may have had to step into the street to pass, putting her in the ambulance’s path. The municipality may be liable if the road and lighting on Abbott Street are insufficient or suffer from defects.
If the investigation reveals that the ambulance driver or city was negligent, Morales’s family may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. Based on California’s comparative negligence laws, her family may be able to recover even if Morales is found partially negligent for stepping into the roadway.
My deepest condolences go out to the family and friends of Maria Morales during this heartbreaking time.
Source: KSBW Action News 8