Fresno, CA (June 2, 2024) – On Sunday, June 2, a tragic collision occurred in downtown Fresno, resulting in the death of 54-year-old bicyclist Gabriel Ortega.
Accident Details: Ortega was riding his bicycle when he approached the intersection of Stanislaus and Van Ness Avenues. He collided with another car and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he unfortunately succumbed to his injuries.
Investigation: Preliminary reports from the Fresno Police Department suggest that Ortega may have made an unsafe turn, which potentially contributed to the crash. However, the investigation is still in its early stages, and many details remain unclear. The driver of the car involved in the accident remained at the scene and is cooperating fully with the police. Authorities have indicated that neither drugs nor alcohol appear to have played a role in the crash.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find several key aspects in this case that warrant close examination. Even though initial reports suggest no involvement of drugs or alcohol, a deeper dive into the driver’s behavior, including their attentiveness and any potential distractions, is necessary. Investigating whether the driver was using a mobile phone or otherwise distracted can be crucial in understanding their role in the collision. Further, even if the investigation finds Ortega made an unsafe turn note that his fault would not negate the fault of other liable parties. California’s comparative negligence laws allow for parties to recover compensation for the portion of damages they are not responsible for. So even if someone is partly at fault, they can still recover reduced damages.
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Gabriel Ortega. I hope further investigation provides clarity on the cause of the accident.
Source: ABC30