Gilroy, CA (November 14, 2024) – On Thursday, November 14, 2024, a tragic four-vehicle collision occurred at the intersection of Monterey Road and Live Oak Avenue in Gilroy.
Accident Details: The accident was reported just before 2 p.m. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that Daniel Arendt, 45, was driving a Freightliner eastbound in the fast lane of Live Oak Avenue. He intended to make a left turn onto Monterey Road. At the same time, a Honda driver, 35-year-old Robert Andrew Valderrama of Morgan Hill, was traveling southbound in the fast lane of Monterey Road. For reasons yet to be determined, Valderrama ran a red light, colliding with Arendt’s Freightliner at the intersection.
The impact caused the Honda to veer into the northbound lanes, where it struck a Jeep head-on. The Jeep, driven by 47-year-old Leonel Orozco, and the Honda overturned due to the force of the collision. Debris from the crash hit a Ford driven by 37-year-old Ricky Reyna. Valderrama succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital. Orozco sustained major injuries and was hospitalized, while Arendt and Reyna were unharmed. Officials have ruled out alcohol and drugs as factors in the crash.
Legal Considerations: As a personal injury attorney, I find that several aspects of this case warrant further examination. Each driver’s adherence to traffic laws and actions leading up to the crash will likely be scrutinized. Any evidence of negligence or recklessness could influence liability determinations. Determining liability is crucial. While preliminary reports indicate that Valderrama ran a red light, further investigation is necessary to assess potential contributing factors, including traffic signal functionality, road conditions, and mechanical malfunctions.
Wrongful Death: Valderrama’s family may consider a wrongful death claim. While initial reports suggest he may have been at fault, there may be additional factors to investigate. Under California’s comparative negligence laws, his family can still recover compensation even if at fault as long as another party also shared fault. Such claims could help the family recover compensation for funeral expenses, lost future income, and emotional suffering.
Personal Injury Claims: Leonel Orozco, who sustained severe injuries, may be able to pursue a personal injury claim to cover medical bills, lost income, and pain and suffering.
This devastating accident has left a lasting impact on their families and the Gilroy community. I extend my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of Robert Andrew Valderrama and wish for the full recovery of Leonel Orozco.
Source: Fox 2 KTVU; KRON 4