Three people were hospitalized following a head-on collision on Highway 165 near Williams Avenue, just outside Hilmar in Merced County, early Saturday morning, November 30, 2024.
The crash occurred shortly after 5:30 a.m. when an 18-year-old man driving south on Highway 165 attempted to pass another vehicle in foggy conditions. The driver sideswiped a box truck and collided head-on with a northbound pickup truck.
The 18-year-old sustained major injuries and was transported to a nearby hospital. Two men in their 50s, who were in the pickup truck, were also hospitalized with injuries.
A woman driving behind the pickup struck debris from the crash but did not report any serious injuries.
Authorities confirmed that fog was a contributing factor in the collision. The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the incident.
Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?
Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:
- Check yourself for any injuries.
- Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
- Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
- Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
- Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
- Seek immediate medical attention.
- Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.
What A Lawyer Can Do For You
Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.