Whitewater, CA (February 7, 2025) – A high-speed wrong-way crash on Interstate 10 early Friday morning claimed the life of Kenneth Montenegro, 25, of Palm Springs.
Accident Details: The collision involved three vehicles. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that the crash occurred around 2:40 a.m. in the eastbound lanes of Interstate 10. Montenegro was driving a grey Volkswagen Jetta westbound in the #1 eastbound lane, resulting in a head-on collision with a black GMC Envoy. The impact disabled the GMC in the center median and pushed the Volkswagen into the #2 and #3 lanes, where a white Toyota CHR struck it. Montenegro was pronounced dead at the scene. Three others suffered various injuries.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. Wrong-way freeway collisions are among the most dangerous crashes, often resulting in severe injuries and fatalities. Investigators will assess multiple factors to determine the cause and liability in this case.
- Driver Behavior: Montenegro’s driving behavior will be assessed to determine why he was driving in the wrong direction. Was he impaired or distracted? Did he suffer a medical emergency?
- Other Factors: The investigation should examine other possibilities for the crash. Was there a road defect? If so, the local municipality may be found negligent for failing to keep the roads safe. Authorities will also inspect Montenegro’s vehicle to determine if it suffered from a mechanical failure that caused him to lose control of it.
Depending on the investigation’s findings, the injured individuals may be able to file personal injury claims for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other losses. Montenegro’s family may also be able to file a wrongful death claim if the vehicle manufacturer or city municipality responsible for road maintenance and safety is found to be negligent.
I extend my condolences to the family and loved ones of Kenneth Montenegro. I also hope for the full recovery of the injured victims.
Source: KESQ News Channel 3