[07-24-2023] Merced County, CA – Motorcycle Rider Killed After Hit-and-Run Incident on Highway 140

A motorcyclist was killed following a tragic hit-and-run collision in Merced County on Monday evening, July 24, 2023.

According to the California Highway Patrol, at approximately 10:00 p.m., officers responded to a vehicle versus motorcycle incident near the junction of Buhach Road and Highway 140.

During the preliminary investigation, it was discovered that 24-year-old Luis R. from Atwater was driving a Nissan Sentra on Highway 140 and attempted to execute a left turn onto southbound Buhach Rd.

Meanwhile, a motorcycle rider was traveling on his Yahama motorcycle eastbound on Highway 140, approaching the Nissan. Tragically, the motorcycle collided with the Nissan, causing the rider to be ejected onto the westbound lane of Highway 140.

Shortly after that, a Ford Mustang driven by a 20-year-old woman from Merced was traveling westbound on Highway 140 when it ran over the motorcycle rider.

Following the initial crash, Romero fled the scene on foot. However, he was located at his residence shortly afterward. Romero underwent an evaluation for DUI but was found not to be under the influence.

He was arrested and booked at the Merced County jail for felony hit-and-run manslaughter, according to the CHP.

Hit-and-Run Accident Attorneys in Merced County

If you’ve experienced a hit-and-run incident in California, know that avenues are available for seeking compensation. Whether through your insurance claim or pursuing legal action, you have viable options to explore. Engaging the services of a skilled hit-and-run lawyer in California becomes crucial when you or your loved one has endured substantial harm or losses due to someone else’s negligence.

Our reliable team of attorneys specializes in handling hit-and-run accidents, and we offer a complimentary initial consultation to assess your case carefully. During this meeting, we will provide expert guidance on the necessary steps to take and diligently consider all relevant factors that may impact the potential settlement you may receive.

You can rely on our trusted Merced County hit-and-run accident attorneys at Arash Law, under the direction of Arash Khorsandi, Esq., to effectively represent you in these court proceedings. Our firm has recovered more than $750 Million for California clients.

If you want to speak with one of our lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form.

What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Accident

Even when a hit-and-run driver tries to flee from the accident scene, there are methods to track them down and ensure they face the consequences of their actions. By adhering to the proper procedures, law enforcement can identify the accountable individual, and if you decide to pursue legal compensation, your case can gain strength.

Here are the recommended guidelines to follow after a hit-and-run incident:

1. Get immediate medical help: It is crucial not to delay seeking medical assistance, even if you don’t feel any direct pain or discomfort. Make it a priority to visit a doctor promptly if you have sustained significant injuries.
2. Report the incident to the authorities: Immediately inform the police about the incident and ensure that you obtain a copy of the accident report from the police station or the appropriate department, such as the California DMV.
3. Inform your insurance company: Notify your insurance provider promptly about the hit-and-run accident, providing them with all the necessary details.
4. Collect evidence from the accident scene: Gather as much information as possible from where the accident occurred. It includes noting the license plate number and the vehicle’s make, model, and color.
5. Acquire witness statements: Obtain contact information (names and phone numbers) from any potential witnesses present at the scene and do this as soon as possible.
6. Seek advice from a California hit-and-run accident lawyer: Before accepting any settlement offers from other insurance companies, consulting a lawyer specializing in hit-and-run accidents is wise. They can provide valuable guidance and protect your rights.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Fatal Hit-and-Run Accident Statistics

Fleeing the scene of an accident is a serious offense in the United States and comes with significant consequences. Leaving an accident without providing aid or reporting it to the authorities is illegal nationwide.

Data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) indicates a shocking 737,100 documented hit-and-run accidents in 2015 alone, with an average of approximately one hit-and-run incident occurring every 43 seconds. Tragically, these incidents resulted in the loss of 2,049 lives in 2016.

California experienced 2,948 recorded hit-and-run collisions between 2010 and 2019, leading to a devastating toll of 3,056 fatalities. The state’s hit-and-run rate stands out as one of the highest compared to other states.

The impact of hit-and-run incidents is undoubtedly severe, underscoring the urgent necessity for increased awareness and effective measures to combat and address this alarming trend.