📍 Tuolumne County, California — A tragic accident struck the Puerto Rican community on Wednesday afternoon when a car accident on Tuolumne County, in Shaws Flat Road and Highway 49, near Sonora, resulted in the deaths of four individuals.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the driver of a Jeep Grand Cherokee, a 56-year-old man, came to a brief stop at the intersection but then proceeded directly into the path of an oncoming pickup truck traveling at 60 mph. The impact was so severe that the Jeep was thrown onto the west shoulder of the highway, killing the driver and all three passengers instantly.
Victims Identified
The four deceased victims, all originally from Puerto Rico, were identified as:
- Jose Ortacotto, 56
- Jose Ortacarmona, 83
- Elba Melendezdeorta, 72
- Michelle Cotto Rodriguez, 52
The report said the driver and front passenger wore seat belts, but the two rear passengers did not.
The 18-year-old driver of the pickup sustained moderate to severe injuries. Authorities have stated that alcohol or drugs are not suspected of contributing to the crash.
What Rights Do Families Have After Such a Painful Loss?
When an accident results in the death of loved ones, California law allows families to seek legal compensation—even if there was no criminal intent involved:
✅ Families can file wrongful death claims under California Code of Civil Procedure § 377.60.
✅ They have the right to seek funeral expenses, loss of companionship, economic support, and emotional suffering.
✅ Civil liability may fall on drivers, insurance companies, or even entities responsible for the roadway.
Legal Support for Grieving Families
At Ayuda California, we understand how overwhelming this type of loss can be—especially for immigrant or Spanish-speaking families. That’s why we offer:
🛡️ Compassionate legal representation in your language
📞 Free and 100% confidential consultations
👨⚖️ Guidance through the legal process to secure justice and compensation
Your Grief Deserves Answers
If you lost a loved one in a car accident in Tuolumne County, we’re here to help you get the answers and justice your family deserves.
Call Ayuda California today. We stand with you in your most difficult moments.
