Salinas, CA — A fatal two-vehicle collision at the intersection of Harrison and Russell Roads in Salinas early Saturday morning, August 24, 2024, claimed the life of a young passenger identified as 19-year-old Justo Feliciano Esteban of Salinas, according to KSBW.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) is investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, which occurred at approximately 6:00 AM.
According to CHP, a Lexus sedan carrying two occupants including Esteban was traveling southbound on Harrison Road and was preparing to make a left turn onto Russell Road. At the same time, a Honda SUV was heading northbound on Main Street, approaching the same intersection.
As the Lexus initiated its turn, the Honda proceeded through the intersection, failing to stop and colliding with the sedan. The impact of the collision was severe, resulting in Esteban’s death.
First responders, including emergency medical personnel and law enforcement, arrived swiftly at the scene. Despite their efforts, Esteban could not be revived. The driver of the Lexus and the driver of the Honda sustained injuries.
The intersection of Harrison and Russell Roads, typically a quiet area surrounded by agricultural fields and residential communities, was closed for several hours as CHP officers conducted their investigation. The roads have since been reopened to traffic.
The CHP is working to determine the exact cause of the collision, including whether factors such as speed, visibility, or potential impairment played a role.
Personal Injury Claims
When the actions of reckless drivers cause injuries to others, the cost of caring for those injuries should not fall on the victims. Filing a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance provider can offer compensation to help cover medical bills and the time taken off work to recover.
However, insurance companies have a vested interest in denying or minimizing claims. This is why the assistance of a knowledgeable personal injury attorney can make all the difference.
Passenger Liability
The liability insurance that drivers carry covers accidental harm caused not only to those outside the vehicle but also to passengers within it. While making a Wrongful Death or personal injury claim against someone who knew the victim can be emotionally challenging, the financial burdens following a vehicular accident can be substantial.
A skilled personal injury attorney can help grieving families seek proper compensation for their loss by navigating these complex issues and negotiating on the victim’s behalf with insurance companies, who routinely work to minimize the payout of any claim they cannot deny.
Failure to Yield
In California, as in other states, “failure to yield” means that you didn’t give the right of way to the right person at the right time. As such, failure to yield or stop is closely related to the “right of way.” When a motorist fails to yield, stop or otherwise avoid an accident and causes a crash, he or she can be held liable for injuries and damages suffered by a victim.
