Ford Transit van driver struck her stalled Kia sedan
January 14, 2026 | San Mateo, CA
A 54-year-old woman lost her life in a devastating collision on the San Mateo Bridge when her stalled vehicle was struck by a driver distracted by a cell phone.
Mary Hurtado Duran, 54, died when a distracted Ford Transit van driver using his cellphone hit her stalled Kia sedan on the San Mateo Bridge.
What Happened in the Crash?
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) reported that Mary Hurtado Duran's Kia sedan came to a stop on the bridge around 3 p.m. A Ford Transit van driver, who was using his cell phone, failed to notice the stalled car in time. Despite attempting to swerve, the van collided with the rear of the Kia.
- Date and Time: Jan. 14, approximately 3 p.m.
- Location: San Mateo Bridge, San Mateo, CA
- Vehicles Involved: Kia sedan, stalled, and Ford Transit van, distracted driver
- Outcome: Duran was pronounced dead at the scene
- Investigation Status: Ongoing by CHP
Why Do Distracted Driving Accidents Happen?
Distracted driving remains a leading cause of fatal crashes across U.S. roadways, with cell phone use being a primary contributor. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), such distractions significantly elevate the risk of collisions.
Distracted Driving Statistic |
Source |
Details |
|---|
Lives Lost in 2023 |
NHTSA |
3,275 fatalities due to distracted driving |
Texting Risk |
NHTSA |
Eyes off road for ~5 seconds at 55 mph equals football field distance |
Overall Effect |
CDC |
Contributes to thousands of injuries annually on highways |
Legal Insights
National legal analysts emphasize the importance of thorough investigations in motor vehicle crashes involving distractions.
In cases such as this, it is crucial to conduct an independent review alongside official efforts. This includes re-interviewing witnesses, reviewing any available video footage, and securing relevant phone records from the at-fault party. An advocate can provide compassionate support to affected families while safeguarding their rights.
– Candice Bond, managing partner at Bond Legal and national analyst for Newsline.
Key takeaways from analyst perspectives on crash investigations:
- Independent investigations help uncover overlooked evidence.
- Families benefit from guidance during grief and legal proceedings.
- Protecting legal interests ensures fair outcomes in liability disputes.
Potential Wrongful Death Claims
Families affected by fatal accidents like this may pursue compensation for losses including companionship, emotional distress, and suffering. A dedicated legal professional can monitor investigations and advocate for entitled damages.
We recognize the profound challenges families face after such tragedies. Ensuring rights are upheld is essential, with support for claims related to loss of companionship and emotional effects.
– Stefano Formica, of counsel with Bond Legal.
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For more on our processes, visit our Editorial Policy.
(This report is based on verified data - learn more on our About Us page.)
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If a reckless driver has caused injury or death to you or a loved one, Candice Bond is available for a no-cost consultation to help you understand your options.
(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).