Maison Law represents the families of victims of fatal car accidents in Modesto. It’s by far the worst thing that can happen with any car accident, but losing a loved one (or them losing you) is unfortunately something that happens. The data on fatal car accidents is fairly plentiful, which gives you and your family a better idea of how common one of these tragic accidents can be. Our team can guide and support you through the claims process. Contact us today for a free consultation.
How Common Are Fatal Car Accidents in Modesto?
In Modesto, a car accident is always a possibility. But, any car accident can be fatal. No matter what the circumstances are, though, the California Highway Patrol’s Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS) shows just how common a fatal car accident is in the city. Between 2019 and 2023, SWITRS data found that there were an average of:
- 17.6 fatal car accidents per year.
While that isn’t necessarily a huge number, looking at the fallout that comes with just one single fatal car accident is overwhelming. But again, to understand how likely these accidents are, you need to look at the breakdown for each year:
- 2019 – 13 accidents
- 2020 – 19 accidents
- 2021 – 20 accidents
- 2022 – 16 accidents
- 2023 – 20 accidents
As you might expect, losing a loved one in a car accident is incredibly hard. You don’t have to hire a lawyer, but having one can be a big help. Here’s how our lawyers can support you and your family:
- Explaining the legal process and your options
- Helping you gather evidence and records
- Working with insurance companies for a fair settlement
- Filing a wrongful death lawsuit, if necessary
Again, you never want to be in a situation as tragic as a fatal car accident. But when and if it does happen, you can rely on the experience and support of our team.
What Causes the Most Fatal Car Accidents in Modesto?
While it’s true that any car accident in Modesto has the potential to be fatal, the reality is that there are certain kinds of car accidents that are more likely to be fatal. When you think about it, higher speeds, driving under the influence, or more general negligence not only causes car accidents, but fatal ones. According to data from the CHP’s Transportation Injury Mapping System (TIMS), fatal accidents in Modesto over the last five years were caused by:
- Driving under the influence – 32
- Speeding – 7
- Ignoring traffic signs – 5
- Failing to yield – 5
- Improper turning – 3
Even in a fatal car accident, there are steps that are important for building a strong claim. However, the difficulties of injuries and other damage can make it difficult. Still, you or your loved ones need to at least attempt to do the following:
- Call 911 for help
- Have the police respond and manage the scene
- Take pictures and videos of any damage or contributing factors
- Exchange contact and insurance information
- Be careful with statements
The aftermath of a fatal car accident can be very traumatic and overwhelming. If you were involved and injured, you might not be able to handle these steps yourself. That’s another area where our team can help.
Who is Involved in the Most Fatal Car Accidents in Modesto?
It’s not just every car accident that has the potential to be fatal in Modesto; anyone involved can suffer serious–even fatal–injuries. But TIMS data also highlights who is more commonly involved in fatal car accidents in the city. Of the 93 victims killed in fatal car accidents between 2019 and 2023, they involved:
- Pedestrians – 42
- Drivers – 32
- Passengers – 10
- Bicyclists – 9
Obviously, it’s fairly easy to see how a car accident can be fatal if you’re a pedestrian or on a bicycle, but even as a driver or passenger in the relative protection of a vehicle, you can suffer fatal injuries. This is different for different people, but usually involves:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Other head injuries
- Organ damage
- Neck or spinal injuries
- Blunt force trauma, especially to the chest
- Burns
- Internal bleeding
- Broken bones
Whether the fatal car accident involves these injuries or something else, it’s important to remember that you have legal options that our team can help you with. But even before you get to that point, it’s also important to look at where fatal car accidents are more likely to happen.
Where Do Fatal Car Accidents Happen in Modesto?
Thinking about a fatal car accident is incredibly difficult, let alone having to face and cope with one. But just like any other car accident, fatal ones are more likely to happen in certain areas of the city–which are also tied to underlying causes.
According to TIMS, fatal car accidents in Modesto happened in the following areas over the last five years:
- McHenry Avenue/State Route 108 – 11
- Yosemite Boulevard/State Route 132 – 9
- Staniford Avenue – 6
- Coffee Road – 5
- Pelandale Avenue – 4
- Briggsmore Avenue – 3
As this data shows, it’s pretty easy to see why the majority of fatal car accidents happen in these parts of the city. The more crowded and busier areas of Modesto mean more car accidents in general, and the more car accidents there are, the more likely some of them will end up being fatal.
With higher stakes in fatal accidents, it’s important to have legal help and support from experienced Modesto car accident lawyers at Maison Law.
Contact Maison Law After a Fatal Car Accident in Modesto
Losing a loved one in a fatal car accident is deeply painful, and while it’s hard to think about, there is a legal process in place in Modesto to support surviving family members. Though having a lawyer isn’t required, our team at Maison Law can make this difficult time easier for you. If you’re facing this loss, we’re here to help with your claim and provide the support your family needs. Contact us today for a free consultation.