A preliminary investigation by the CHP shows that a 21-year-old woman driving an SUV was traveling on Oakdale Road when it attempted to pass another vehicle and collided with an oncoming Chevy Suburban
Merced County, CA – One person was killed in a car accident that left four people injured on Thursday morning in Merced, according to the California Highway Patrol.
At about 8:30 a.m. February 5, authorities responded to reports of a collision in the area of Oakdale Road and Fisher Road.
A preliminary investigation by the CHP shows that a 21-year-old woman driving an SUV was traveling on Oakdale Road when it attempted to pass another vehicle and collided with an oncoming Chevy Suburban.
The driver of the SUV was declared deceased at the scene. The driver of the Suburban and three children in her vehicle were taken to a hospital with unspecified injuries.
The early morning fog was suspected to have played a role in the accident.
Additional details on the crash were not immediately released. The California Highway Patrol is investigating to determine the cause of the accident.
Over recent years, Merced County has shown notable variation in the number of car crashes and serious collisions. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety data, in 2020, the county recorded 2,116 fatal and injury collisions, with 314 alcohol-involved and 348 speed-related crashes, alongside 228 nighttime and 152 hit-and-run incidents. In 2022, total fatal and injury crashes increased to 2,465, with 325 alcohol-involved incidents, 406 speed-related collisions, 238 nighttime crashes, and 196 hit-and-run events, reflecting a rising trend from 2020. By 2023, that figure edged slightly lower to 2,386 total fatal and injury collisions, including 305 alcohol-involved and 381 speed-related crashes, with 257 nighttime and 191 hit-and-run incidents, suggesting some year-to-year fluctuation but persistent safety challenges. These trends indicate that while total serious crashes peaked around 2022, key risk factors like impaired driving, speed, and late-night collisions have remained consistent over multiple years.
Seek Legal Help from a Professional Truck Accident Lawyer
If you were injured or lost a loved one in a traffic crash involving a truck, you may be entitled to damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Truck accident claims are complex and often involve large insurers. Professional legal representation can help protect your rights and pursue the maximum compensation available. Visit our truck accident lawyer page to learn more about your legal options.