Antioch, CA – A fatal collision on Highway 4 early Sunday morning, October 3, 2024, claimed the life of a man whose vehicle was engulfed in flames following a crash, according to KTVU.
Contra Costa California Highway Patrol (CHP) officers reported that the accident occurred at approximately 5:13 AM and involved a gray Honda CR-V and a blue Ford F-150. Both vehicles were driven by men, with no passengers in either car.
According to the CHP’s preliminary investigation, the Honda had become disabled in the fourth lane of the highway for reasons still under investigation. The driver of the Ford, traveling eastbound on Highway 4, struck the rear of the stationary Honda, leading to the SUV catching fire.
Unfortunately, the Honda driver was trapped inside the vehicle and could not escape the flames. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The name of the deceased will be released by the Contra Costa County Coroner’s Office after family notification.
The driver of the Ford was transported to the hospital with minor injuries and is expected to recover. Authorities have confirmed that drugs or alcohol were not suspected to be factors in the crash. This is an ongoing investigation.
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.
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.
