Merced County, CA – A 30-year-old Ballico man lost his life in the early hours of Wednesday, January 17, 2024, after crashing into a utility pole and chain link fence, according to KSEE.
The incident occurred around 2:17 AM on Santa Fe Drive, north of Bradbury Road. California Highway Patrol officers responded to a report of a solo vehicle crash, finding the driver trapped inside the 2002 Toyota Camry due to live power lines on top of the vehicle.
Turlock Irrigation District was called to shut down the power lines, allowing medical personnel to provide aid. Despite their efforts, the driver died at the scene.
Investigations revealed that the driver was traveling northbound on Santa Fe Drive at an unknown speed. For reasons yet unknown, the vehicle veered off the east road edge, colliding with a utility pole and chain link fence.
The circumstances leading to the crash are under investigation as authorities work to determine the factors involved in this fatal incident.
Should it be determined that another driver’s reckless behavior led to this crash, family members of the deceased may be eligible to make a wrongful death claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance provider. A wrongful death claim can help to relieve the financial burden caused by hospital fees, burial costs, and even the loss of income to support the dependents of the deceased.
Insurance providers always have the incentive to challenge and minimize any payout, however, which can make it crucial to work with a skilled personal injury attorney who can ensure proper compensation for victim’s families.
