Merced County, CA – Grandmother and Grandchildren Dead after Tragic Accident along Northbound Interstate 5

Merced County, CA (July 17, 2018) – Merced local news sources reported that a tragic accident resulting in the death of a woman and her grandchildren took place along the northbound lanes of the Interstate 5 Freeway in the vicinity of Taglio Road. Authorities have identified the deceased grandmother as 57-year old Covina resident Regina Dorado but have not provided specific information about her grandchildren at this time. These same sources have also identified another victim as 19-year old Raylene Valencia and the driver responsible for the crash as 56-year old Braulio Martinez, a resident of Ontario.

Based on the initial reports from the California Highway Patrol, Braulio Martinez was driving a 2011 Freightliner northbound on the 5 Freeway. At some point, traffic had slowed on the highway to make way for a recent accident, and Martinez failed to decrease speed to match the stalled vehicles. Without warning, the Freightliner plowed into the rear-end of a 2012 Dodge Caravan, occupied by Regina Dorado, Raylene Valencia, and the children. As a result of the impact, the Dodge careened off the main lanes and slid into a center median.

Afterward, CHP officers confirmed that Dorado, as well as a 6-year old girl and a 10-year old girl, had died during the impact.

Later, another 6-year old girl, one of Dorado’s grandchildren, was transported to Valley Children’s Hospital in Madera, CA where she received treatment for severe injuries. Simultaneously, Valencia was interred at Memorial Hospital in Madera to receive aid for non-life threatening injuries.

Presently, the investigation is ongoing.

We extend our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Regina Dorado and her grandchildren during this difficult time. We also offer our most loving prayers to Raylene Valencia and the 6-year old child and wish them swift and efficient recoveries.

Multiple Fatalities Crash 

Accidents similar to the collision on Interstate 5 are tragic and unfortunate. Drivers are obliged by law to be attentive and give the right of way to other motorists on roadways.

In the event that a driver is found guilty of distracted driving, negligence, or additional factors, the family members of Regina Dorado and her grandchildren can pursue a wrongful injury lawsuit against the culprit. Compensation will cover unfortunate events such as tragic loss.

We at Brady Law Group will work with you to ensure your rights and give you the peace of mind needed to focus on your recovery.

If you’ve been injured as the result of another person’s negligence, please call us at (866) 211-2562 to receive a free consultation with one of our expert attorneys.

Note: Outside sources were used in the creation of this post including news bulletins and first-hand accounts of the accident and injuries involved. As a result, the details of the accident presented have not been independently verified by our own writing staff. If you have identified any false information in the story, please inform us immediately, and we will adjust the posting to reflect the most accurate content available.

Disclaimer: As a member of the local community, we at Brady Law Group strive to improve the overall safety and quality of life for everyone who lives in our beloved state. We are extremely saddened by these accidents but hope that, through an awareness of these dangers, those in our community will take precautions to avoid these accidents. This is not a solicitation for business, and this information should not be misconstrued as medical or legal advice. We wish only the best and quickest recovery to all those involved in the accident.