CHP: Drowsy driver caused crash that killed Merced woman
MADERA, CA, (August 18, 2025) - A tragic two-vehicle crash in Madera County on Monday morning claimed the life of a Merced woman.
Maria Iniguez, 53, of Merced, was identified by the CHP as the passenger who died in a two-vehicle collision Monday morning in Madera County.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), the accident happened around 8:40 a.m. on Highway 233 at Robertson Boulevard and Avenue 22.
The coroner’s office identified the victim as 53-year-old Maria Iniguez.
Investigators said a 19-year-old Madera resident driving a white Chevrolet Silverado southbound on Highway 233 reportedly fell asleep at the wheel. The vehicle crossed into the northbound lanes and into the path of a black BMW 320i. Despite evasive maneuvers from both drivers, the Chevrolet struck the BMW on its right side.
Iniguez, a passenger in the BMW, was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
Both drivers were transported to Madera Community Hospital with minor injuries, authorities confirmed.
The incident remains under investigation.
CRASH INVESTIGATION NEEDED
Several factors are to blame for the surge in traffic fatalities, but at the heart of it is driver behavior—including speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and distracted driving, especially due to cellphone use. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has reported that 8,055 lives were lost in motor vehicle collisions during the first quarter of 2025.
While the cause and liability of the crash are being investigated, Candice Bond, an experienced accident attorney and Managing Partner of Bond Legal, said that it is imperative to have an independent investigation conducted by a seasoned attorney.
“In addition to the diligent work of law enforcement, an attorney can re-interview important witnesses, analyze any surveillance video from the scene of the crash, and obtain phone and texting records of the liable party,” said Bond, a national analyst for The Legal Advocate.
Time is of the essence in cases such as this, and the family of a victim must be ensured that evidence is reviewed in an efficient manner.
WRONGFUL DEATH CLAIM
Pending the investigation, the family of Maria Iniguez may have grounds to pursue a wrongful death claim. Such claims can provide compensation for loss of companionship, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other damages following a tragic accident.
“Losing a loved one is not only a deeply emotional loss but also an economic one,” said Candice Bond, Managing Partner at Bond Legal.
“If you have lost a family member due to another’s negligence, it is important to seek the guidance of an experienced wrongful death attorney to protect your rights and pursue the justice you deserve.”
Have you experienced a similar accident and need guidance? Contact national legal analyst Candice Bond at Newsline for a free, no-obligation consultation today.
(Candice Bond, our national legal analyst, is a Managing Partner at Bond Legal. Newsline can and does use quotes from prior interviews with our analysts for our news articles. If you would like to contact Bond Legal to help you, please call 866-985-6515 or use the submission box found on this page. Legal analysts quoted may or may not be licensed in your state).