[08-14-2024] Stanislaus County, CA – One Person Killed, Another Injured Following Three-Vehicle Collision in Oakdale

One person was killed, while another was injured following a three-vehicle collision in Oakdale on Wednesday morning, August 14, 2024.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the fatal crash occurred around 7:30 a.m. on Highway 120 just west of Meadowlark Lane.

First responders arrived at the scene to find three damaged vehicles and the gravely injured driver of a Hyundai hatchback. The Hyundai driver, later identified as 33-year-old Lawrence F. from Escalon, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The initial CHP investigation revealed that the deceased was driving westbound on Highway 120 in the number two lane while an Oakdale woman was driving a 2018 Ford sedan in the adjacent number one lane. Meanwhile, a 2018 Nissan pickup truck, driven by an Oakdale man, was heading east on the same roadway.

As the two westbound lanes merged into one, Lawrence F. reportedly tried to pass the Ford sedan. During the maneuver, the left rear of his Hyundai collided with the right front of the Ford, causing his vehicle to rotate counterclockwise. The Hyundai then veered into the path of the oncoming Nissan, leading to the fatal collision.

The unnamed Oakdale man driving the Nissan sustained minor injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital by ground ambulance. Meanwhile, the female Ford sedan driver was not injured in the accident.

CHP confirmed that drugs and alcohol do not appear to be factors in the collision, and all involved parties were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash.

The investigation into the accident continues.

Seek Help From Our Reliable Car Accident Lawyers In Oakdale, CA

If you or a loved one has been injured in a car accident, you may be entitled to compensation. Our experienced personal injury attorneys, supervised by Arash Khorsandi, Esq., are here to provide expert advice and support for your car accident case. Arash Law is dedicated to helping you navigate this challenging time.

Schedule a free consultation with our reliable Oakdale car accident lawyers. After choosing to work with us, we will review your case, discuss the next steps, and consider all factors that could impact your settlement. We can also assist you in obtaining further information or a police report if needed.

Our legal team has a proven track record of advocating for accident victims, with over $750 Million in compensation awarded to our clients. Rest assured, you are in capable hands.

To speak with one of our personal injury lawyers, please call (888) 488-1391 or fill out the “Do I Have a Case?” form. We’re here to help you secure the compensation you deserve.

What To Do After An Oakdale Car Accident

Experiencing a car accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps immediately afterward can help protect your rights and ensure your safety. Here’s a guide to follow if you find yourself in a car accident:

1. Remain Calm And Assess the Situation – Stay at the scene and check for any injuries, starting with yourself and then others. Keeping calm will help you handle the situation more effectively.
2. Move To A Safe Area – If possible, move your vehicle to the side of the road or a safer location. Activate your hazard lights to alert other drivers and prevent further accidents.
3. Contact Emergency Services – Dial 911 to report the accident. Police and emergency medical services will document the incident and provide necessary medical assistance. This official report is crucial for any future claims.
4. Exchange Information With Other Drivers – Gather names, phone numbers, and insurance details from all parties involved. Also, take photos of the vehicles, license plates, and any visible damages. This evidence can be vital for your case.
5. Avoid Admitting Fault – When speaking to the police or other parties, stick to the facts and avoid making statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Let the investigation determine liability.
6. Seek Immediate Medical Attention – Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get checked by a healthcare professional. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent. Medical records will also support any injury claims.
7. Notify Your Insurance Provider – Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with the necessary information but avoid discussing fault or making recorded statements until you’ve consulted with an attorney.
8. Speak With Insurance Adjusters Cautiously — The other party’s insurance company may contact you. Be polite but cautious, and do not provide detailed statements or accept settlements without legal advice.
9. Document Everything – Keep all records related to the accident, including the police report, medical bills, and communication with insurance companies. Organized documentation will support your claim and ensure you don’t miss any important details.
10. Consult With Our Car Accident Lawyers – For expert advice and representation, contact our California car accident lawyers at (888) 488-1391. We offer free consultations to discuss your case, help you navigate the legal process, and work towards securing the compensation you deserve. Our team is here to support you every step of the way.

I HAD AN ACCIDENT

Car Accident Statistics

Car accidents are a significant cause of injuries and fatalities across the United States. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motor vehicle accidents accounted for 21% of all preventable injury-related deaths in the US in 2021. In the first half of 2023 alone, approximately 19,515 deaths resulted from traffic crashes, a 3.3% decrease from the 20,190 deaths reported during the same period in 2022. This data highlights the ongoing danger posed by traffic accidents and the importance of road safety.

The statistics in California are equally concerning. The NHTSA recorded 2,061 fatalities due to motor vehicle accidents in the first half of 2023. In 2022, the state saw a total of 160,819 crashes that resulted in fatalities or injuries. These numbers reflect the high incidence of serious accidents on California roads and the need for vigilant driving practices.

Focusing on Oakdale, the latest data from the Transportation Injury Mapping System reveals that there were 48 crashes resulting in injuries or fatalities in 2023. This local data emphasizes that even smaller communities are not immune to the devastating effects of traffic accidents. If you or a loved one has been involved in a car accident, seeking legal assistance can be crucial in navigating the complexities of personal injury claims and ensuring fair compensation.