[01-26-2025] Merced County, CA – Woman Critically Injured, Dog Killed In Hit-And-Run Crash On Santa Fe Drive

Authorities are searching for a driver involved in a hit-and-run collision that left a woman critically injured and her dog dead early Sunday morning, January 26, 2025, in Merced County.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred around 1:30 a.m. on Santa Fe Drive near Pepper Street, east of Delhi. Investigators say a man driving a Mazda rear-ended a Honda traveling eastbound on Santa Fe Drive. The impact caused both vehicles to veer off the road, with the Mazda overturning and the Honda crossing train tracks.

Emergency responders used the jaws of life to extricate the woman from the Honda. She was transported to a hospital with major injuries. Tragically, her dog, who was in the car with her, died in the crash.

Witnesses reported seeing the male driver of the Mazda exiting the vehicle with injuries before being picked up by another person. Authorities have classified the incident as a felony hit-and-run and are actively searching for the suspect.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the California Highway Patrol.

Talk To Our Dedicated Hit-And-Run Accident Attorneys In Merced County

If you or someone you love has been injured or killed in a hit-and-run accident, seeking legal advice from a personal injury attorney is crucial to recover damages.

The skilled hit-and-run accident attorneys at Arash Law, led by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., offer free consultations to evaluate your case. During this consultation, we will review your situation, explain the legal process, and examine the factors that could influence the compensation you may receive.

Our industry-recognized Merced County injury law firm can provide expert legal support, assist with insurance claims, and represent you in court when necessary. As one of California’s top personal injury law firms, we have recovered over $500 million for accident victims and their families. If needed, we can also help you obtain important documents like police reports.

To speak with one of our attorneys, call (888) 488-1391 or fill out our “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What To Do After A Hit-And-Run Accident In Merced County, CA

If you’re injured in a crash where the driver flees the scene and you’re still able to do so, taking specific steps can significantly enhance your chances of securing a settlement. These actions not only assist authorities in identifying and locating the driver but also strengthen your claim for damages. The recommended steps include:

1. Move To A Safe Location. If possible, move yourself or your vehicle to a safe location to avoid further collisions or injuries.
2. Stay Calm. Stay on the scene and make sure everyone is okay. Check yourself for injuries first before checking others. Remain calm and do not admit fault.
3. Collect As Much Info As Possible At The Accident Scene. Depending on your condition, you might be able to get the car’s license plate number and the make, model, and color of the vehicle. If you can’t note these details, try to at least take a few photos of the car using your phone.
4. Call The Police. The quicker you report the accident to authorities, the faster they can act to arrest the driver. The police will also create an official record of the accident, which can assist you later when you submit a claim.
5. Get Witnesses’ Names And Contact Information. Witnesses may stay to check on your condition, but after the cops and ambulance show up, they may quickly leave. Try to get their contact details as soon as possible. Witnesses can verify the event and bolster your claim.
6. Get Prompt Medical Attention. See a doctor as soon as possible and get examined for injuries. Seeking medical care also produces a record of your injuries. You must stick to your doctor’s treatment plan for your health to improve.
7. Report To Your Insurance Company. Stick with the facts when reporting, and avoid admitting or designating any fault. Do not give a recorded statement or accept a settlement offer without legal counsel.
8. Consult With Experienced Hit-And-Run Attorneys. They can help you navigate the legal process and maximize your monetary compensation.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Hit-And-Run Accident Statistics

Data from ValuePenguin reveals a sharp increase in deadly hit-and-run accidents between 2012 and 2021, far surpassing the overall rise in fatal crashes during that period.

In 2021, 2,783 fatal hit-and-run accidents were recorded—a staggering 89.4% increase from the 1,469 incidents reported in 2012. In comparison, overall fatal crashes only rose by 27.4% over the same decade.

California has the highest percentage of deadly hit-and-run crashes in the U.S., with 10.1% of its fatal accidents involving hit-and-runs. Pedestrians are most often the victims, accounting for more than 60% of these cases. From 2012 to 2021, 62.8% of fatal hit-and-run crashes involved pedestrians, and pedestrian deaths increased by 53.7% during this period.