[08-05-2020] Merced County, CA – One Person Killed in a Fatal Pedestrian Accident on Highway 99

An unidentified woman was killed after getting struck by a car on Highway 99 in Merced on Wednesday morning, August 5.

The accident occurred at around 12:30 a.m. on Highway 99 between Sultana Drive and Westside Boulevard. The woman was initially driving her car on Highway 99 when she stopped on the freeway side and went out of her car. The woman then attempted to cross the northbound lanes of the highway between Sultana Drive and Westside Boulevard before a passing Toyota SUV suddenly struck her.

The woman was later pronounced dead at the scene. One witness said the woman was initially trying to retrieve an item that fell out of their vehicle across the freeway before getting struck. The driver of the Toyota remained at the scene and cooperated with local authorities. Drugs and alcohol were not considered as factors in the fatal crash.

Fatal Pedestrian Accident Investigation is Underway

The California Highway Patrol is currently investigating the cause of the fatal accident. Witnesses that can give additional helpful information are urged to call the CHP Merced Area Office at 209-356-6631.

Pedestrians are more vulnerable to the dangers on the road in comparison to passengers in a private vehicle. Passengers of private cars are protected by seat belts and airbags, decreasing the fatality rate of an accident while pedestrians are not as protected from the dangers on the road. Pedestrians currently make up a large percentage of traffic fatalities in the past 33 years. According to the Governors Highway Safety Association, pedestrian fatalities in the U.S. have increased by 27 percent from 2007-2016 while other traffic-related deaths decreased by 14 percent.

When facing cases like this, it’s vital to have an experienced Merced County wrongful death attorney specializing in fatal pedestrian accidents to conduct a private investigation. Attorneys have the resources that can help them prove the negligence of the liable party. They can re-interview important witnesses, review relevant surveillance footage from the scene, and obtain the responsible party’s phone and texting records.

I WAS IN AN ACCIDENT

Merced County Wrongful Death Attorney for Victims of Fatal Pedestrian Accidents

Suddenly losing a loved one due to a fatal pedestrian accident can be quite devastating and stressful.

The victim’s family is encouraged to pursue a wrongful death claim with their attorney’s assistance while waiting for the results of the official investigation. Through the wrongful death claim, the victim’s family can seek compensation for the damages (such as loss of companionship and income, funeral expenses, pain and suffering, and emotional distress) caused by the fatal accident.

Attorneys can serve as a compassionate, helpful legal guide during this difficult time for the grieving family. They will vigorously fight for their client’s rights and best interests while ensuring that the liable party will be held accountable for their negligence. Attorneys can also negotiate with insurance companies on behalf of their clients to ensure they are compensated fairly.

If you have a nagging suspicion that someone is to blame for your spouse or family member’s death or injury, contact Arash Law. We have the resources you need to pursue justice for wrongful death and the experience to ensure fair compensation. We’re conveniently located throughout California, with offices in Los Angeles, Sacramento, San Francisco, Riverside, Orange County, and San Diego, and are happy to visit you. Call (888) 488-1391 for a FREE Consultation with a wrongful death attorney in California.