Two Dead in a San Jose Wrong-Way Collision on Highway 85
Head-On Collision, San Jose, CA
A Teen and a Woman are Killed in a Head-On Collision on Highway 85, near Saratoga Avenue
San Jose, CA –A tragic wrong-way crash on Highway 85 in San Jose claimed the lives of a woman and a teenage boy on Monday afternoon.
The Incident
On Monday August 26, 2024,, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) received alarming calls about a driver heading the wrong way on northbound Highway 85 near Saratoga Avenue in San Jose.
The driver, identified as 39-year-old Duncan McQuarrie, was operating a white Toyota Tacoma in the wrong direction. At approximately 3:50 p.m., McQuarrie’s vehicle collided head-on with a Tesla, leading to a devastating crash south of Highway 87. The occupants of the Tesla—a 47-year-old woman named Rebecca Olsen and a 14-year-old boy—tragically lost their lives at the scene. McQuarrie sustained major injuries and was promptly hospitalized.
The CHP has indicated that they will recommend felony manslaughter charges against McQuarrie, pending the outcome of their investigation. Witnesses to the incident are urged to contact the CHP San Jose Area Office to provide crucial information.
Legal ImplicationsÂ
Wrong-way crashes are a severe safety issue, responsible for approximately 350–400 fatalities annually in the United States, according to the NHTSA. Highway 85 in San Jose, specifically, has seen multiple such incidents over the years, highlighting its dangerous stretch.
Felony manslaughter charges are common in fatal crashes involving reckless or impaired driving, as outlined in California Penal Code. Witnesses play a vital role in such cases; the CHP emphasizes the importance of eyewitness accounts to support investigations and potential prosecutions. Tesla’s advanced safety features, including Autopilot, could contribute valuable data to clarify any contributing factors in the collision.
FAQs
- What should I do if I witness a wrong-way crash? Immediately contact emergency services and provide detailed information about the incident. Your testimony can be crucial for investigations.
Â
- What legal charges does a driver face in a fatal wrong-way crash? Drivers involved in fatal accidents, like the wrong-way crash on Highway 85, may face felony manslaughter charges, particularly if reckless or impaired driving is involved.
Â
- How do safety features in vehicles like Tesla aid in accident investigations? Advanced safety features and data from systems like Tesla’s Autopilot can provide valuable insights into the moments leading up to a crash and help authorities determine causes and liabilities.
Â
- Why is it important to seek legal representation after a fatal car accident? Legal representation helps navigate the complexities of wrongful death claims, securing fair compensation for the affected families and ensuring that their rights are protected.
Â
- What compensation can victims’ families seek in wrongful death cases? Families can seek compensation for medical expenses, funeral costs, loss of income, loss of companionship, and emotional distress caused by the fatal accident.
Free Case Review
Visit Our Main Office
Don’t navigate the aftermath of a head-on collision alone. Let the Scranton Law Firm stand by your side. With over 50 years of experience as personal injury lawyers, we’ve helped thousands recover from their losses. If you or a loved one are affected by a San Jose head-on collision, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Secure your rights and seek the justice you deserve. Call us now for a free consultation – The Scranton Law Firm, your trusted ally in these challenging times. Call 800-707-0707 now.Â