Walter Cleven Jr. Killed and 4 Injured in Collision at Avenue 12 and Road 36 1/2 in Rancho Maderas
Madera, California (November 14, 2021) – Walter Cleven Jr., 50, has been identified by the Madera County sheriff-coroner as the driver who died in a wrong-way crash that happened early Sunday morning in the Madera Ranchos area, the California Highway Patrol reported.
The accident was reported at around 12:11 a.m. on Avenue 12 at Road 36 1/2.
As per the report, Walter was driving a gray Toyota Rav 4 the wrong way when he collided head-on with a white BMW.
Wrong-Way Driver Killed in Madera County Crash Identified
The police said Walter, a resident of Oakland, was not wearing a seatbelt and died at the scene of the accident.
The BMW had four people inside, including an adult woman, and three underage passengers.
The children were transported to Valley Children's Hospital while the woman was taken to Community Regional Medical Center for treatment.
The roadway was blocked in the collision area for an unknown period following the wreck.
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.