A 20-year-old man from Planada was killed, and another driver sustained major injuries in a head-on crash in Merced County early Friday morning, March 7, 2025.
According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at around 2:00 a.m. on Santa Fe Drive, west of Avenue Two.
Authorities stated that the 20-year-old man was driving a 2006 BMW at an unknown speed when he suddenly veered left into the path of a 2012 Chevy sedan traveling at approximately 45 mph. The vehicles collided head-on.
The BMW driver, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was pronounced dead at the scene. The Chevy driver sustained major injuries and was transported to Doctors Medical Center in Modesto for treatment.
CHP officials have not yet released the identity of the deceased.
The cause of the crash remains under investigation.
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.