20-Year-Old Woman Succumbed to Fatal Injuries after Suspected Madera County DUI Crash
Madera County, CA (July 11, 2023) – A suspected Madera County DUI crash left a 20-year-old woman with fatal injuries. According to ABC30, the crash occurred around 4:00 a.m. on Monday.
A 20-year-old woman succumbed to fatal injuries after a suspected Madera County DUI crash.
The California Highway Patrol responded to a suspected DUI crash in Madera County, leaving one woman with life-threatening injuries and the male driver arrested.
Unfortunately, responding authorities later pronounced the 20-year-old woman dead at the scene.
Meanwhile, the male driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was badly injured and taken to a Fresno hospital.
They later identified the male driver as 38-year-old Michael Messer. Police then arrested Messer on suspicion of DUI in connection with the crash.
Officer Javier Ruvalcaba said, “There were plenty of indicators in the vehicle [of Messer]. We had alcoholic containers in the vehicle and then some other drug paraphernalia.”
According to the authorities, Messer drove in the wrong direction on eastbound Ellis Street while the 20-year-old woman in the opposite direction was driving on her way to work.
Court records reveal that Messer has been arrested for DUI in the past, both in 2018 and 2020.
The woman’s identity, whose life was tragically lost, still remains unknown.
J&M Tip: Drunk driving is a common offense for which police officers make arrests. To avoid this, drivers should never drink and drive, and should always have a designated driver.
Google Map of Car Accident in Madera 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 Madera County
In this case, the family members of the victim in this Madera 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
- Hit and Run Accident
- Motorcycle Accident
- Pedestrian Accident
- Truck 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, Madera 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):
- https://abc30.com/madera-county-fatal-crash-head-on-ellis-and-fairview/13484895/
- https://news.yahoo.com/video/1-killed-1-hospitalized-head-131332151.html
Jacoby & Meyers does not represent any of the parties mentioned above. Nevertheless, we express our deepest sympathies for the family and friends of the victim.
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