Dominiq Puentes killed in Fresno moped crash on Bullard Avenue
A 12-year-old passenger was critically injured in the Friday night collision at Bullard and Palm avenues.
Dominiq Puentes, 13, was killed in a moped crash involving a truck at Bullard and Palm avenues in Fresno, California, on Friday, according to police.
The eastbound white truck collided with Puentes' moped around 10:40 p.m. The truck's driver remained at the scene and is cooperating with investigators. The juvenile from Fresno died at the scene.
A 12-year-old passenger on the moped was taken to a local hospital and remains in critical condition.
Officers are investigating the circumstances of the crash. Authorities initially received multiple calls reporting a traffic collision at the intersection.
Why did the truck and moped collide on Bullard Avenue?
While the cause and liability of a crash are being investigated, it is important that a competent attorney handles investigations into cases such as this to ensure the rights of the victim and their family are protected.
Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News, said, "An attorney can collect the proper evidence to help prove that a driver’s actions were reckless, which requires a variety of resources. Your lawyer can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from a crash scene, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party. Serving as an advocate, an attorney can help compassionately guide a victim during this difficult time, while vigorously protecting their legal rights and best interests."
How do investigators rule out impaired driving in Fresno crashes?
Police noted they do not currently believe drugs or alcohol were factors, but full investigations routinely examine all possibilities, including impairment.
Stefano Formica, who serves as a national legal analyst for Accident News and is of Bond Legal, noted, "Unlike cars, mopeds lack seat belts, airbags, and reinforced frames. In crashes, riders experience direct contact with the ground or other vehicles. This exposure often results in traumatic injuries."
California personal injury framework
California follows a pure comparative fault system. Injured parties may recover damages reduced by their percentage of fault. The statute of limitations is 2 years from the date of the crash.
Damages include economic losses (medical bills, lost income, rehabilitation) and non-economic losses (pain, suffering, emotional distress).