Merced County, CA (March 15, 2025) – A man was killed Saturday evening in a crash on Highway 152 near Pacheco Pass after his vehicle broke down in an active lane of traffic. The accident occurred around 6 p.m. east of Dinosaur Point, just outside Pacheco State Park.
Incident Details: According to the California Highway Patrol, the driver of a Nissan was traveling westbound on Highway 152 when his vehicle became disabled in the number three lane. A tractor-trailer, also traveling westbound in the same lane, did not see the stopped car in time and crashed into it. The impact ejected the Nissan driver from his vehicle, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. The truck driver was uninjured. Authorities do not suspect drugs or alcohol played a role in the collision.
Investigation and Legal Considerations: Crashes involving disabled vehicles often raise questions about driver visibility, roadway lighting, and whether hazard lights or flares were deployed. Investigators will examine whether roadway conditions or driver inattention contributed to the truck driver’s failure to see the stalled car. Additionally, liability could depend on whether the Nissan driver had time to safely exit the vehicle, as being struck while stopped on a highway can significantly increase the risk of fatal injuries.
My deepest condolences go out to the victim’s family during this difficult time.
Source: ABC30 Fresno