Vanessa Arellano ID'd as Woman Killed in San Martin DUI Crash on Highway 101 near San Martin Avenue
San Martin, California (November 9, 2021) – The Santa Clara County Medical Examiner-Coroner's Bureau has identified the woman who died early Sunday morning in an alleged DUI crash south of San Martin as Vanessa Arellano, 26, of Castroville.
The deadly crash happened at around 2:50 a.m. Sunday, November 7, on the southbound side of Highway 101, just south of San Martin Avenue, the California Highway Patrol reported.
According to the CHP, Joseph Feghhi, 23, of Prunedale, was driving a 2016 Chevrolet Corvette southbound on Highway 101 when he slammed into the back of a 2004 Toyota sedan driven by Arellano.
As a result of the collision, the two vehicles veered off the roadway and knocked down a fence near the San Martin airport.
Joseph Feghhi Arrested after Highway 101 Crash That Killed Castroville Woman
Arellano was pronounced dead at the scene.
Both drivers were sole occupants of their respective vehicles, authorities said.
Investigators determined that Feghhi was under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the collision. He was ultimately arrested on suspicion of DUI.
The crash prompted the authorities to temporally close all three southbound lanes of Highway 101 until 8:30 a.m. Sunday.
The accident remains under investigation. Anyone with information about the collision is urged to call Officer Stewart at (408) 848-2324.
Fatal Auto Accidents in California
Auto accidents happen every day in roadways in California, some of them resulting in significant injuries that ultimately cause death.
It is unfortunate that many fatal car accidents in California result from the negligence of one or more drivers.
The aftermath of a fatal collision is always unbearable for the deceased's family members.
Although there is no amount of compensation that can replace a loved one, the immediate family members of the deceased can file a wrongful death claim to help settle outstanding medical bills. In addition, there is a need to seek compensation for loss of consortium, loss of a loved one's future income, emotional suffering, among other damages.
Wrongful Death Claim
A wrongful death claim can be negotiated with an insurance company or through a court of law. For a family member to establish a wrongful death claim, there must be evidence that the negligent party directly caused the injuries and death of their loved one.
At this point, it is advisable to involve a qualified wrongful death lawyer to help bring expertise to your claim.