Fatal Crash with Semi-Trailer on Abbott St in Salinas Kills Escondido Man

Salinas, CA – On Saturday morning, May 4, 2024, a fatal crash with a semi-trailer claimed the life of a 51-year-old Escondido man, according to KSBW.

The victim, identified as a man from Escondido, was driving a 2012 Volkswagen southbound on Abbott Street north of Highway 101 at the time of the incident. For reasons yet to be determined, the driver failed to negotiate a turn, veered off the west road edge at an unspecified speed, and collided with the rear of a parked flatbed semi-trailer on the dirt shoulder.

Tragically, the impact of the crash resulted in the driver sustaining fatal injuries, and he was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the crash, including whether drugs or alcohol played a role.

Wrongful Death Claims

Establishing fault in a collision can depend on multiple factors. Helping to determine legal liability is one of the ways that a personal injury attorney can help grieving families recovering from the loss of a loved one in a traffic accident.

Suppose it is determined that another party holds some portion of responsibility for their loved one’s death. In that case, they may be eligible to file a wrongful death claim with the insurance provider of the at-fault driver. A wrongful death claim can provide compensation to help cover hospital fees, burial costs, and the loss of support for dependents of the deceased.