Lodi, CA – In the early hours of Monday, July 13, 2026, a two-vehicle collision resulted in a fatality on State Route 12, according to CHP Fatal.
The California Highway Patrol reports that the accident took place around 5:51 AM on State Route 12 between the 8800 and 9299 blocks.
Authorities said the collision involved a black sedan and a small Chevrolet S10 truck, with one vehicle fully engulfed in flames. A brush fire ignited near the scene, prompting a fire department response.
The San Joaquin County Sheriff’s Office was notified to respond in its capacity as coroner. One party was transported to a residence. Caltrans was notified and dispatched to the scene.
Two tows were requested, including a flatbed for a Honda and a separate tow for the Chevrolet S10. The roadway was reopened following the initial response, with all vehicles moved to the right shoulder.
No additional details regarding the identity of the deceased had been released at the time of reporting. The investigation remains ongoing.
San Joaquin County Car Accidents and Wrongful Death Claims
California law follows the principle of comparative negligence. This means that even if a driver is found partially at fault for an accident, their surviving family members may still pursue compensation if the negligence of another party contributed to the crash. Investigators with California law enforcement examine factors such as speed, roadway conditions, and the actions of each driver involved to determine what role outside factors may have played.
Regardless of the findings, the family of the deceased may have the right to pursue a wrongful death claim. A wrongful death claim can provide the family with compensation for funeral expenses, loss of financial support, loss of consortium, and other damages related to the fatal accident.
