Fresno County, CA (January 4, 2025) – On the evening of Saturday, January 4, 2025, a tragic DUI collision occurred at the intersection of Floral and Willow Avenues in Fresno County.
Accident Details: Saul Galvez Diaz, 24, was driving a Toyota eastbound on Floral Avenue. He crossed the center line while attempting to turn left on Willow Avenue. The Toyota collided head-on with a westbound Nissan driven by a 61-year-old woman. Michelle Lawrence, 28, was a front passenger in the Toyota. She sustained severe injuries and was transported to Community Regional Medical Center, where she was pronounced dead. A 9-year-old girl in the rear seat of the Toyota suffered major injuries and was also hospitalized. Lawrence was not wearing a seatbelt, but the girl was. Both drivers and the Nissan’s passenger were treated for moderate injuries at the same hospital.
Investigation: Authorities arrested Galvez Diaz on suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol. He will be booked into Fresno County Jail after his medical care release.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that this tragic accident underscores the severe consequences of driving under the influence. Driving under the influence of alcohol is generally considered negligent. Intoxicated drivers fail to exercise the reasonable care expected on the road, significantly increasing the risk of harm to others. In this case, the alleged impairment of Saul Galvez Diaz, combined with his reported failure to maintain control of his vehicle and stay in his lane, caused this tragic collision.
Wrongful Death Claim: Michelle Lawrence’s family may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim against Galvez Diaz. Such a claim would aim to hold him accountable for his actions and seek compensation for the devastating loss of their loved one.
Personal Injury Claims: The 9-year-old girl injured in the collision, as well as other injured parties, may also pursue personal injury claims to recover damages for their medical expenses, pain and suffering, and any long-term impact from their injuries.
Comparative Negligence: It is important to note that California’s comparative negligence laws may reduce recoverable compensation for Lawrence’s family. If she is found partially at fault for her death—due to not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash—a jury could allocate a percentage of liability to her, potentially lowering the compensation her family receives.
I extend my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Michelle Lawrence during this unimaginable loss. My thoughts also go out to the other victims injured in this tragedy.
Source: GV Wire