Stanislaus County, CA — On Saturday, December 21, 2024, Simon Gutierrez Castaneda, a 64-year-old resident of Oakdale, lost his life, and his 54-year-old passenger, Eddie Cortes of Palmdale, was injured in a devastating head-on collision, according to The Modesto Bee.
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reports that the accident took place around 11:52 AM along Highway 120 near Pioneer Avenue when 34-year-old Nicholas Anthony Martinez of Coulterville was driving a 2007 GMC pickup east on SR-120.
According to the CHP, Martinez veered into the westbound lane, colliding head-on with Castaneda’s 2014 Chevrolet pickup.
Emergency responders arrived shortly before noon to find the two vehicles severely damaged. Castaneda was rushed to Doctors Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries. Castaneda’s passenger, Eddie Cortez, was taken to Memorial Medical Center for treatment of major injuries.
Martinez, who had a blood alcohol level of .15% at the time, faces charges of murder, DUI, and gross vehicular manslaughter. He has a prior DUI conviction, according to the Stanislaus County District Attorney’s Office. Martinez was arrested following a medical evaluation and booked into the Stanislaus County Public Safety Center.
Wrongful Death Claims
Even if a fatal accident doesn’t lead to criminal charges, families who lose a loved one can still file a Wrongful Death claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance. This compensation can help cover medical bills, funeral costs, and lost income that the family depended on.
However, insurance companies will always try to pay as little as possible, making it difficult for families to receive the full amount they deserve. So, having an experienced personal injury attorney is essential to receive fair compensation and justice for your loved one.
If you or someone you love was harmed in an accident like the one described here, feel free to contact Maison Law for any questions or to receive a no-cost, no-obligation case assessment.
