Tulare County, CA – A heart-wrenching collision on Monday, September 30, 2024, claimed the life of a 1-month-old infant on Highway 198 near Horse Creek Road, according to KBAK.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) responded to the scene around 1:40 PM, where a head-on collision had occurred between a Kia Optima and a Freightliner truck.
Initial investigations suggest that the driver of the Kia, 24-year-old Johnathon Reyes, was attempting to pass another vehicle when he collided with the oncoming big rig. The impact left the Kia on the westbound shoulder of Highway 198, while the Freightliner blocked the westbound lane.
Reyes and a front-seat passenger suffered major injuries and were transported to Kaweah Health Medical Center for treatment. Tragically, the 1-month-old girl, who was also in the Kia, was pronounced dead at the hospital.
CHP continues to investigate the circumstances of the crash.
Wrongful Death Claims
Determining fault in an accident can involve many factors. One key way a personal injury attorney can support families after the loss of a loved one is by helping to establish legal responsibility.
If someone else is found even partly responsible for the death, the family may be able to file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This can provide compensation to help cover medical bills, funeral expenses, and the loss of income to support the family of the deceased.
Comparative Negligence
California Law upholds the concept of Comparative Negligence, which allows more than one party to share blame in a personal injury accident. Injured victims may have their compensation reduced if they are found partially to blame.
