A 55-year-old Coarsegold resident was killed in a two-vehicle crash on Highway 41 at Road 209 in Madera County on Sunday morning, January 19, 2025.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 9:15 a.m. when a 63-year-old motorist from Fresno was traveling southbound on Highway 41 in a white 2000 Honda Civic and approaching Road 209.
The Coarsegold resident, driving a blue 2008 Chevrolet Cobalt, was traveling northbound on the highway, also approaching Road 209 in the left turn lane.
Investigators say the Chevrolet Cobalt driver attempted to make a left turn onto Road 209, crossing directly into the path of the Honda Civic. The Fresno resident attempted to swerve to avoid the collision, but the front of the Civic struck the right front of the Cobalt.
CHP confirmed that the Chevrolet driver was not wearing a seat belt and was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the Civic, who was wearing a seat belt, sustained moderate injuries and was transported to Community Regional Medical Center for treatment.
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Consult With Our Industry-Recognized Madera County Car Accident Lawyers
Most motorists are driving defensively, reducing the likelihood of collisions. Still, car accidents remain a pressing concern, resulting in severe injuries and deaths. If you lost a loved one or were injured in a car accident, you might be able to get monetary compensation through a lawsuit or insurance claim.
Arash Law’s knowledgeable auto accident attorneys offer free initial consultations to evaluate your case. We will assist you in obtaining the required paperwork, including police records, if needed. We will also assess the factors that may affect your claim, guide you through the legal process, and help maximize your compensation.
Led by the esteemed Arash Khorsandi, Esq., our Madera County injury law firm can offer you first-rate legal advice about insurance claims and, if required, court representation. With more than $500 million in settlements recovered for our clients, we are among the biggest and most respected injury law companies in California.
To talk to one of our dedicated attorneys, fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form or call us at (888) 488-1391.
What To Do After A Car Accident In Madera County
Traffic accidents happen so suddenly and can easily overwhelm you. To safeguard your safety and legal rights, you must take the following steps if you are still able to:
- Put Safety First — If possible, try to move your car to the side of the road away from traffic. To alert others, switch on your hazard lights as you wait for the police.
- Stay Calm — Remain composed and attentive. Look for any injuries. When interacting with the other people involved in the crash, avoid apologizing or accepting blame for it.
- Notify The Authorities — Call 911 and report the collision to the police. An official report detailing the accident will be created, which you can use to bolster your claim.
- Collect Information — Exchange information with the other party, including names, contact details, and insurance information. Take pictures of the cars involved, as well as any damage, license plates, and injuries.
- Don’t Accept Responsibility — Give the police a thorough explanation of the collision, but avoid saying anything that could be interpreted as an admission of fault.
- Seek Medical Attention — Seek medical attention as quickly as possible, regardless of how minor the injuries seem. Certain symptoms might not show up right away. To support your claim, you will also need medical records.
- Inform Your Insurance Company — Inform your insurance company about the accident. Follow their instructions on how to report the crash properly.
- Avoid Dealing With Insurance Adjusters Alone — If the other party’s insurance adjuster gets in touch with you, provide them with only the basic information. Do not accept an offer or sign anything without acquiring legal counsel.
- Keep Evidence Well-Documented — Ensure all relevant evidence, including the police report, medical bills, the other driver’s information, and medical records, are secured.
- Call (888) 488-1391 — When bringing a personal injury claim, our highly-regarded California auto accident attorneys can evaluate the merits of your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and offer you legal counsel throughout the process.
Fatal Car Accident Statistics
According to the National Safety Council, motor vehicle collisions account for 43 percent of all traffic-related fatalities in 2022, making them the primary cause compared to other types. Collisions involving stationary objects, such as trees, account for about 26 percent of these incidents. Accidents involving pedestrians and rollovers rank second.
Motor vehicle crashes account for 78% of all injuries, 71% of all injury crashes, and 71% of all recorded accidents, even though they account for less than half of all traffic fatalities. In 2022, the California Office of Traffic Safety reported 11,157 fatalities and injuries in Sacramento County.