On Tuesday, October 15, 2024, a devastating multi-vehicle collision on Highway 120 in Manteca, California, resulted in one fatality and left several others critically injured. The Manteca Fire Department reported that the crash involved five vehicles and occurred in the eastbound lanes of the highway.

Fatal Multi-Vehicle Crash Shuts Down Highway 120 in Manteca 1

Incident Details

The fatal collision, which took place during the afternoon hours, caused significant disruption to traffic flow and prompted an immediate response from emergency services.

Photos shared by the Manteca Fire Department on social media depicted a scene of chaos, with debris scattered across the roadway and at least one severely damaged vehicle visible.

Emergency Response and Traffic Impact

Local authorities and first responders quickly arrived at the scene to provide medical assistance and manage the aftermath of the crash. The incident led to the closure of eastbound Highway 120, causing major traffic delays in the area.

To mitigate the impact on commuters, officials recommended alternative routes:

  • Drivers passing through Tracy were advised to use Interstate 580 as an alternate route.
  • Those travelling on I-205 were warned to expect significant delays.

Safety Considerations

This tragic fatal accident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of road safety and attentive driving. Multi-vehicle collisions often result from a chain reaction, where one initial impact leads to subsequent crashes. Factors such as speeding, distracted driving, or adverse weather conditions can contribute to such devastating accidents. Drivers are urged to maintain safe following distances, stay alert, and adjust their driving to road conditions to help prevent similar incidents in the future.

Legal Implications

The legal aftermath of a multi-vehicle collision like this can be exceptionally complex. Determining liability often involves a thorough investigation into the actions of multiple drivers, road conditions, and potential vehicle defects.

Victims and their families may face challenges in navigating insurance claims, especially when multiple policies are involved.

Personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits may arise, requiring careful examination of evidence and expert testimony. Additionally, if any commercial vehicles were involved, there could be questions of employer liability. It’s crucial for those affected to seek experienced legal counsel promptly to protect their rights, ensure proper preservation of evidence, and navigate the intricate legal landscape that follows such tragic events.

Moving Forward

As the investigation into this tragic accident continues, our thoughts are with the victims and their families. This incident underscores the need for ongoing efforts to improve road safety and reduce the occurrence of fatal crashes on our highways.

For those affected by this or similar incidents, remember that legal resources are available to help you understand your rights and options during this difficult time. Talk to an experienced GJEL accident attorney.

Get Expert Legal Assistance

If you or a loved one has been involved in this multi-vehicle crash on Highway 120 in Manteca, or any similar accident, don’t face the complex legal and insurance processes alone. The experienced team at GJEL Accident Attorneys is here to help you navigate this challenging time.

Our dedicated attorneys specialize in multi-vehicle collisions and have a proven track record of securing fair compensation for our clients. We understand the intricacies of these cases and are committed to fighting for your rights.

In the aftermath of a fatal accident, many families find themselves grappling with the difficult question of fair compensation. While no amount of money can truly compensate for the loss of a loved one, understanding potential settlement values can help families make informed decisions.

Fatal accident settlement calculators are online tools that provide rough estimates based on factors such as the deceased’s age, income, dependents, and circumstances of the accident. While these calculators can provide a starting point for discussion, consulting with an experienced attorney is essential for a comprehensive evaluation of your case and to ensure you receive fair compensation.

“My heart goes out to everyone affected by this tragic accident on Highway 120. The physical and emotional trauma of such an event can be overwhelming, and it’s crucial to remember that you don’t have to face this challenging time alone. As an experienced accident attorney, I strongly advise those injured or who have lost loved ones to seek legal counsel promptly. The complexities of multi-vehicle accidents require careful navigation of insurance claims and potential lawsuits. Your focus should be on healing and recovery, while we handle the legal intricacies to ensure your rights are protected and you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re here to support you every step of the way.”- Andy Gillin, GJEL Accident Attorney

Don’t wait to get the legal support you need. Contact GJEL Accident Attorneys today for a free, no-obligation consultation. Our compassionate team is ready to listen to your story, explain your options, and guide you through every step of the legal process.

Call us now at +1 415-986-4777 or visit our San Francisco office to schedule your consultation. Remember, time is critical in these cases – act now to protect your rights and secure the compensation you deserve.

At GJEL Accident Attorneys, we’re not just lawyers – we’re your advocates, your support system, and your path to justice.

Local Resources and Official Contacts

For those seeking more information or needing to contact local authorities regarding this incident, here are some important resources:

  1. Manteca Police Department
  2. California Highway Patrol (CHP) – Stockton Area
  3. Caltrans District 10 (Responsible for state highways in the area)
  4. San Joaquin County Office of Emergency Services

For the latest traffic updates and road conditions:

Remember, these resources are for informational purposes. If you’ve been involved in the accident, it’s crucial to work with your legal representation when communicating with official entities about the incident.

Author Photo

Andy Gillin received his Bachelor’s Degree from the University of California at Berkeley and his law degree from the University of Chicago. He is the managing partner of GJEL Accident Attorneys and has written and lectured in the field of plaintiffs’ personal injury law for numerous organizations. Since 1972 he has been helping seriously injured victims throughout northern California fight & win their personal injury cases. Andy is one of the top awarded & recognized wrongful death lawyers in northern California.