Three family members -- Donald Fisher, 77, his wife Arlene, 74, and their son, Brian Fisher, 55 – were killed in a Fresno car accident after their vehicle was hit head-on by another. A KFSN news report states that the fatal car crash occurred March 9, 2010 when 32-year-old Manuel Casillas, who was driving on Jensen Avenue, went into opposing lanes of traffic and struck the Fishers' vehicle. It is not clear what caused Casillas to go over the center divide and cause the head-on collision. An investigation is ongoing.
What a devastating loss for everyone who knew and loved this family! I offer my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the Fishers, who were apparently active in their community. This family will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Fresno Car Accidents
According to California Highway Patrol's traffic accident statistics, there were four fatalities and 15 injuries involving car accidents in Coalinga, in 2008. In Fresno County as a whole, 127 deaths and 3,233 injuries were reported as a result of car accidents during the same year.
What Caused this Car Accident?
Based on this news report, it is not clear what exactly caused this car accident. Casillas may have been impaired. He may have been speeding. There is also the possibility that Casillas may have been distracted. We also do not know if there was a vehicle defect or a mechanical malfunction in his vehicle that caused him to lose control of it.
Wrongful Death Claim
Where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased car accident victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation to cover funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages. If Casillas is found to have been at fault here, he could be held criminally and civilly liable for the fatal accident.
If Casillas was working or running an errand for someone at the time, his employer or the individual he was running an errand for at the time, could also be held liable. Victims' families in such cases, would be well-advised to seek the counsel of an experienced Fresno personal injury lawyer who will advise them about their legal rights and options.
We are not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call a reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free confidential consultation to "not at fault" persons named in this article and their family members.
