Fresno, CA — A fatal collision on Monday afternoon, September 2, 2024, claimed the life of a 53-year-old man from Riverdale, according to The Fresno Bee.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the accident occurred around 1:20 PM when an SUV failed to stop at a posted stop sign at the intersection of Kamm and Jameson Avenues. The SUV entered the intersection from Jameson Avenue and was struck by a commercial semi-truck traveling westbound on Kamm Avenue.
The force of the impact severely damaged both vehicles, pushing them off the road and into a nearby almond orchard. The semi-truck, carrying a heavy load, rolled onto its side among the trees.
Despite the efforts of emergency responders, the driver of the SUV was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity is being withheld pending notification of his family, but authorities have described him as a 53-year-old Riverdale resident. The driver of the semi-truck sustained minor injuries and was treated at the scene.
The CHP is continuing its investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Wrongful Death Claims
Establishing fault in a collision can depend on multiple factors. One crucial way a personal injury attorney can assist grieving families is by determining legal liability after the loss of a loved one in a traffic accident.
If another party is found to hold some responsibility for the death, the family may be eligible to file a Wrongful Death claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance provider. This claim can provide compensation to help cover hospital fees, burial costs, and the loss of support for the deceased’s dependents.
Stop Sign Laws
California Law requires drivers to come to a complete stop at a Stop sign (California Vehicle Code 22450). Drivers may only enter the intersection when it appears safe for all parties to do so (California Vehicle Code 21802).
Martin Gasparian is the founder of Maison Law, a California Personal Injury Law Firm. Martin is a graduate of Georgetown University Law School and has been practicing law in California 2004. His practice focuses on helping injury victims know their rights and recover just compensation.