Monique Contreraz Died In Fresno Hit-And-Run Car Accident With Pickup Truck Near The Intersection of Herndon Avenue and Milburn Avenue
FRESNO, CALIFORNIA (May 16, 2022) – A woman identified as Monique Contreraz has died in a hit-and-run truck accident by the intersection of Herndon Avenue and Milburn Avenue.
Fresno County police officials are saying that the collision took place on Friday. Monique Contreraz was pushing a shopping cart when she was hit by a 38-year-old in a pickup truck.
The pickup truck driver dragged the victim for eight miles before leaving her in the parking lot of a La Quinta Inn. Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene in order to help Monique Contreraz.
Sadly, she was pronounced dead at the scene. Authorities were eventually able to locate the suspect. He threw himself out of a 3 story window before being apprehended by police.
Liability In Fresno Hit-And-Run Truck Accidents
Far too many people are killed or seriously injured in hit-and-run car accidents every year. People who are experiencing homelessness tend to be at the highest risk of being involved in a fatal hit-and-run collision. According to the san Francisco Examiner, “Five out of 23 people killed by traffic collisions last year in San Francisco did not live “at a fixed address,” according to the Department of Public Health. That’s up from only two in 2017.” There are a number of steps that drivers should take in order to avoid hitting pedestrians.
- Drivers should slow down in areas with heavy pedestrian traffic.
- Drivers should abstain from substances that could impair them.
- Drivers should check their blind spots before making turns.
All drivers have a legal obligation to exercise due care in order to avoid hitting pedestrians. Pursuant to California Vehicle Code 21950, the driver of any vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to any pedestrian crossing in a marked or unmarked crosswalk. If a driver hit a pedestrian after driving past a yield sign without yielding, this may be considered prima facie evidence of their failure to yield.
When a driver hits a pedestrian and then flees the scene, they could face criminal penalties under California Vehicle Code 20001. Drivers must remain at the scene of any accident that results in bodily injury or death. If a driver leaves the scene of any injury collision they could face a number of punishments. This includes jail time, license revocation and fines.
Many pickup trucks are used for commercial purposes. The company that a pickup truck driver was working for could potentially be held at fault. In general, companies are liable for the negligent actions of their employees – insofar as those employees were working within the course and scope of their job duties. There are a number of steps that need to be taken after any hit-and-run collision.
- Surveillance footage should be sought.
- Eye witnesses should be interviewed.
- Medical records should be preserved.
- A thorough, independent investigation should be conducted.
The family of anyone that died due to the negligence of another driver may have legal recourse through a wrongful death claim. Damages in a civil claim can help cover lost wages, medical bills and pain and suffering. Potential beneficiaries in a civil claim may include a victim’s spouse, parents or siblings. A wrongful death attorney can examine all of the facts of your case and let you know what your legal options are.
Investigating A Fresno Hit-And-Run Truck Accident
We at TorkLaw extend our deepest condolences to the family of Monique Contreraz. Any person that may have more information about what happened should reach out to police. This was a preventable tragedy that should have never taken place. There needs to be some accountability for the sake of the victim’s family.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a Fresno hit-and-run car accident? Our team of pedestrian safety advocates are here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need a free, independent investigation into an accident we are here for you. You can reach out to us anytime at (888) 441-4991.
