Richard Cortes Killed in Fresno Hit-and-Run Accident
The driver of the silver Jeep was arrested on felony charges after returning to the scene on Olive Avenue
Richard Cortes, of Fresno, died over the weekend after being struck by a hit-and-run driver on Olive Avenue in Fresno, California, on May 25, according to police.
The 33-year-old driver of a silver Jeep, Yzamar Mendez, was arrested and booked into jail on charges of felony hit-and-run and driving with a suspended license. Investigators said the Jeep was making a left turn and pulled directly into the path of the westbound rider, causing the collision.
The driver initially fled but returned to the scene while officers were still conducting their investigation.
Cortes suffered major head, neck, and back injuries and was placed in a medically induced coma before succumbing to his injuries.
The crash remains under investigation.
The sudden loss of a loved one in a hit-and-run leaves families grappling with deep grief and unanswered questions. While the criminal justice system addresses the felony charges against the driver, parallel civil investigations focus on the mechanics of the crash.
Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal, said, "Evidence preservation remains essential after serious hit-and-run collisions because critical information can disappear quickly through ordinary passage of time."
A legal counsel helps families manage hardship and complications while ensuring accurate documentation and careful evaluation of serious roadway collisions during recovery and proceedings, added Bond, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News..
Why did the Jeep turn into oncoming traffic on Olive Avenue?
Left-turn collisions frequently occur when drivers fail to yield the right-of-way to oncoming motorcycles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, left-turning vehicles are a leading cause of fatal motorcycle crashes nationwide. Investigators will review intersection sightlines and vehicle speeds to determine exactly how the collision unfolded.
How do criminal charges impact civil liability in Fresno?
When a driver faces felony hit-and-run and suspended license charges, those criminal proceedings establish a strong foundation for civil accountability.
"The sudden loss of a loved one in a fatal hit-and-run collision can create lasting emotional hardship and significant uncertainty for surviving family members. Experienced legal counsel assists with evidence preservation and complex insurance issues that may follow," added Bond, who is also a national legal analyst for Accident News.
Families navigating the aftermath of a fatal collision often benefit from independent legal guidance to protect their rights while the criminal case proceeds. Individuals involved in hit-and-run incidents may have legal options. Consulting a personal injury attorney can help clarify rights and potential claims.
California wrongful death statute
Under Cal. Code Civ. Proc. § 377.60, surviving family members may file a wrongful death action. California applies pure comparative fault. The statute of limitations is 2 years from the date of death.
Recoverable damages may include loss of financial support, loss of companionship, funeral expenses, and the decedent's pre-death pain and suffering.