Joshua Tree, CA (January 14, 2025) – A tragic multi-car collision occurred on Tuesday, January 14, on Twentynine Palms Highway near Kerr Avenue, claiming the life of 31-year-old Benjamin Perez of Twentynine Palms.
Accident Details: According to CHP Officer Michael Radford, Perez was driving a 2020 Nissan Sentra eastbound in the highway’s fast lane at a high speed around 4:15 p.m. A Chevrolet Silverado, traveling at a slower speed directly ahead of Perez, caused him to steer to the right to avoid a collision. This maneuver led Perez to lose control of his vehicle, striking the front right of the Chevrolet.
Perez’s car veered into the westbound lanes, colliding with a Burrtec trash truck in the right lane and a 2023 Tesla Model Y in the left lane. Emergency responders transported Perez to Hi-Desert Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased. The driver of the Tesla sustained minor injuries and was treated at the same medical center, while the Burrtec truck driver remained unharmed.
Investigation: The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is actively investigating the incident and seeking information about one of the vehicles involved. Authorities are looking for the Chevrolet Silverado in the sequence of events. The vehicle is described as an extended cab or four-door truck with step rails, a missing front license plate, and possibly a 4×4 decal on the left rear of the bed.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. From a legal perspective, the identification and involvement of the Silverado driver are critical to understanding liability in this tragic event. Was Perez traveling at the appropriate speed in the high lane? Was the Chevrolet going too slow for the fast lane?
Depending on the findings, multiple parties could bear responsibility for the accident. Investigators will also examine road conditions, the mechanical condition of all involved vehicles, and the behavior of all drivers involved.
Depending on the outcome of the investigation, the family of Benjamin Perez may have grounds to file a wrongful death claim, seeking compensation for the loss they have endured. Such claims can address funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other damages arising from the incident.
My sincerest condolences are with the family and friends of Benjamin Perez during this difficult time.
Source: Hi-Desert Star