Fresno County, CA (December 3, 2024) – A fog-related collision on Tuesday morning at the intersection of Parlier Avenue and McCall Avenue in Fresno County tragically claimed the life of 36-year-old Armando Jimenez Cadena of Del Rey.
Accident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the crash occurred around 9:30 a.m. when a pick-up truck entering the intersection collided with a northbound big rig on McCall Avenue. The semi struck the front of the pick-up and dragged it approximately 100 feet through the intersection.
Cadena, the driver of the pick-up, was ejected from the vehicle. Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead at the scene. A passenger in the truck was rescued from the burning vehicle by a passing motorist. She was transported to the hospital with moderate injuries but remains in critical condition.
Investigation: The driver of the big rig did not sustain injuries and is cooperating with investigators. Fog with a visibility limit of approximately 100 feet is believed to have contributed to the accident. The CHP continues to investigate.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this devastating accident raises several legal considerations that may affect claims and liabilities.
- Driver Behavior and Visibility: Investigators will examine whether either driver acted negligently under the prevailing weather conditions. Foggy conditions demand heightened caution, including reduced speeds and extra vigilance at intersections. Investigators will also determine who had the right of way.
- Road Conditions and Visibility Impact: Fog reportedly limited visibility to 100 feet, making this a significant contributing factor. Authorities may evaluate whether proper signage, warnings, or intersection controls, such as traffic lights or additional stop signs, could have mitigated the risk. Municipal or state agencies responsible for road maintenance might also face scrutiny if deficiencies in traffic management are found.
- Vehicle Safety and Maintenance: Investigators may review whether the pick-up truck or semi had any mechanical defects, such as faulty brakes or lights, which could have impaired the drivers’ ability to avoid the collision.
Wrongful Death: If negligence contributed to the crash, the family of Cadena may pursue a wrongful death claim to address the emotional and financial losses stemming from his untimely passing.
Personal Injury: The critically injured passenger may pursue a personal injury claim against the driver or other liable parties. Compensation could address medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering.
Comparative Negligence: Under California’s comparative negligence laws, multiple parties could share liability. Even if Cadena is found partially at fault, his family could still recover damages proportionate to the other parties’ liability.
I offer my deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of Armando Jimenez Cadena. Losing a loved one so suddenly is an unimaginable tragedy. My thoughts also remain with the passenger who is in critical condition, wishing them strength and a full recovery.
Source: Your Central Valley