Maria Aguerralde Fatal, Two Others Injured in Kings County DUI Crash
Kings County, CA (August 6, 2023) – Maria Aguerralde (82) succumbed to her injuries after a Kings County DUI crash. Two people also incurred injuries from the collision. According to Your Central Valley, the police were alerted around 11:30 am on Sunday.
A Kings County DUI crash caused one fatality and two other injured victims.
The California Highway Patrol Hanford Office responded to a fatal DUI crash on Highway 198, west of 27th Avenue in Kings County, resulting in one fatality and two injured victims.
According to investigators, Mariano Najar Martinez, 65 years old from Huron, was driving a 2000 Chevrolet Silverado westbound on Highway 198 at approximately 70 to 80 miles per hour.
At the same time, Maria Aguerralde, 82 years old from Huron, was driving a 1998 Chevrolet S-10 eastbound on Highway 198 at approximately 55 miles per hour.
The officers determined that Najar Martinez was driving under the influence when he made a left turn, driving his vehicle in the opposite direction in the eastbound lanes towards the S-10, resulting in a collision.
Najar Martinez was placed under arrest and was then transferred to a local trauma hospital via Skylife for treatment of his injuries.
Unfortunately, Maria Aguerralde died at the accident scene.
On the other hand, her passenger, 53-year-old Julia Mendoza of Huron, was transported to a nearby hospital with minor injuries.
Traffic responders and investigators remained on the scene of the crash for over three hours to examine and clean up the debris.
Anyone with information regarding this incident can contact the California Highway Patrol’s Hanford Office at (559) 582-0231.
J&M Tip: After an accident, hiring an injury attorney won’t cost you anything during the legal process. Many law firms only charge if they win your case, meaning you won’t have to pay them if your case is unsuccessful.
Google Map of Car Accident in Kings County, CA
More About Car Accident Liability
Various circumstances of the car accident can pinpoint the liability of damages. In some instances, thorough investigations can reveal careless behavior. This can include the simple act of recklessly turning or cutting in front of another vehicle. In terms of determining who is at fault for an accident, this can be defined by common law. Any Sacramento or Los Angeles car accident lawyer recognizes that fault has four basic levels:
- Negligence
- Recklessness (wanton conduct)
- Intentional misconduct
- Strict liability
However, different state laws can have variations of applicable traffic laws. For example, in some states, multiple drivers can be liable for an accident. This is why thorough investigations are important after a car accident. Having a strong case showing the liability of the at-fault party can help guarantee your compensation. Likewise, a car crash attorney can also help you determine all your options, so you can fully recover from the accident. Learn more about car accident lawyers in California here. You can also check out these resources about wrongful death attorneys and personal injury lawyers.
Personal Injury (Wrongful Death) Claims in Kings County
In this case, the family members of Maria Aguerralde in this Kings County DUI crash can have the right to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit. However, it can depend on the investigation’s findings. In addition, negligence by a person or business can contribute to an accident, which might have resulted in the death of a family member. If that is the case, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim and receive a big settlement.
Indeed, no amount of money will ever make up for the death of a loved one. However, receiving the maximum settlement and winning a judgment can give a sense of justice. Also, it can offer some peace of mind.
Do you have any legal questions about accidents? Get answers and common accident-related legal advice here:
- Wrongful Death
- Car Accident
- Pedestrian Accident
- Hit and Run Accident
- Truck Accident
- Motorcycle Accident
- Bicycle Accident
Get reliable answers to common legal questions by checking out our list of practice areas here.
Indeed, nothing can alleviate the pain of losing a loved one. However, getting your rightful compensation is also important to help with recovery. Getting advice and guidance from experienced personal injury attorneys can help you pursue your case. For instance, Jacoby and Meyers has a team of the best lawyers for any car accident, wrongful death, or motorcycle accident cases in California, including Los Angeles, Kings County, and Sacramento. Consulting a lawyer can help you get insight and information about complicated topics, including car accident settlements and more. If you’d like professional advice about your case, call us today at 888-960-0480 for a free consultation. We are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, to help you.
Source(s):
Jacoby & Meyers does not represent any of the parties mentioned above. Nevertheless, we express our deepest sympathies for the family and friends of Maria Aguerralde.
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