Commerce, California – Authorities have identified a man who died Wednesday afternoon in a multi-vehicle collision on the southbound Santa Ana (5) Freeway near Washington Boulevard in Commerce.
The Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner confirmed the victim as José Cordova Aldana, 52. The crash occurred around 12:55 p.m., according to the California Highway Patrol.
Paramedics from the Los Angeles County Fire Department pronounced Aldana dead at the scene. Following the incident, all southbound lanes of the 5 Freeway were initially closed while officers investigated, and a SigAlert was issued.
Three of the five lanes were later reopened as crews worked to clear the area. Officials noted that one of the vehicles may have overturned, though that detail has not been officially confirmed.
The SigAlert was canceled around 4:50 p.m., and all lanes were reopened after the completion of the investigation.
The California Highway Patrol continues to investigate the circumstances leading to the fatal crash.
How to Claim Compensation After a Multiple-Car Accident Death
When a fatal crash involves multiple vehicles, determining who is responsible can be complex. Each driver, insurance company, and even third party may try to shift blame. However, understanding your legal rights and acting quickly can help you recover the compensation your family deserves.
Understanding Fault in Multi-Vehicle Accidents
In a multi-car accident, fault is rarely straightforward. Multiple drivers may share responsibility, and sometimes road conditions, defective parts, or commercial drivers’ negligence contribute to the crash. An experienced car accident law firm can investigate the scene, gather witness statements, review police reports, and consult with experts to determine how the collision occurred and who is legally liable.
What Compensation Can Be Claimed
After a fatal accident, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for:
- Funeral and burial expenses
- Medical costs related to the injury before death
- Loss of financial support
- Loss of companionship and emotional suffering
These are typically recovered through a wrongful death claim, which allows families to hold the at-fault parties accountable for their negligence. A skilled wrongful death attorney in California can guide you through this process and ensure no damages are overlooked.
The Role of a Car Accident Lawyer
In complex multi-vehicle cases, hiring car accident lawyers in California is essential. Your lawyer will manage communication with insurance adjusters, collect and preserve evidence, calculate total damages, and negotiate for a full and fair settlement. If necessary, they will take the case to court to ensure justice is served.
Why You Should Act Quickly
California law limits the time to file a wrongful death lawsuit—typically two years from the date of death. Waiting too long may prevent your family from recovering any compensation. An experienced Los Angeles car accident attorney can file all necessary paperwork on time and ensure your case moves forward without delay.
Get Help From Experienced Attorneys
A fatal crash changes everything for a family, but you don’t have to go through the aftermath alone. At Megeredchian Law, our legal team has recovered millions for victims of car accidents and wrongful death cases across California. We provide aggressive representation, compassionate support, and proven results.Call (866) 359-0807 today to schedule a free consultation with Megeredchian Law. If we don’t win your case, you don’t pay anything.