Edinburg North High School graduates killed in ATV crash
by Benjamin Treviño | December 1st, 2023 | Blog
Two teens who were killed in a November 26 ATV accident were recent graduates of Edinburg North High School, according to the district’s Public Information Officer, Lisa Ayala.
The victims are identified as 18-year-old Jaidy Alcalá and 17-year-old Leila Elizabeth Arias. The teens were riding on an ATV Razor that ended up on its side and partially submerged in a canal with two to three feet of water in it, according to the Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities say they received a call about 6:50 p.m. regarding the accident which happened near Edinburg Lake in the 6400 block of Rio Grande Care.
The caller stated two girls arrived at his home with apparent injuries, asked for help and were taken to the hospital by the caller’s wife.
When deputies arrived, they pulled Alcalá and Arias out of the water, began life-saving measures and then transported them to a hospital where they were pronounced dead.
“Investigators spoke with the two surviving females, and it was revealed that the driver of the ATV lost control of the vehicle and drove into a canal near Edinburg Lake,” the initial news release said. It was not clear who was driving the ATV when it crashed.
Edinburg North High School acknowledged the two recent graduates on their Facebook page memorializing them and sending their families and friends their condolences.
“The Edinburg Consolidated Independent School District along with Edinburg North High School extends their deepest condolences to the families and friends of two recent graduates Leila Arias and Jaidy Alcalá,” Ayala said.” Grief counselors are available at the campus for students and staff.”
Alcalá and Arias were both involved in softball and powerlifting, and graduated in May 2023.
Who is responsible for an ATV accident?
The liability for an ATV accident will depend on the facts specific to each case, but here are some possible liability scenarios:
Operator negligence: If the accident occurred because the operator was driving recklessly or in violation of the law, then the operator might be liable.
Manufacturer defects: If the accident was caused by faulty brakes, steering or other defect, then the manufacturer or distributor of the ATV might be liable for the accident.
Property owner liability: If the accident occurs on private property and the property owner failed to properly warn of hazards or maintain the property, then the property owner might be held liable.
Negligence of another party: If the accident was caused by the negligence of another party, such as a driver of another vehicle or a pedestrian, then that party could possibly be liable for the accident.
What types of insurance might apply to an ATV accident?
Here are some types of insurance policies that could possibly provide coverage for ATV accidents:
- Homeowners insurance
- ATV insurance
- Auto insurance
It is important to review all insurance policies carefully to understand what types of coverage are included and what types of exclusions may apply. If you are involved in an ATV accident, it is important to report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. However do not accept any settlement offers without consulting an attorney.
How J. Gonzalez can help.
ATV accidents can be rather complex, but the J. Gonzalez Law Firm is dedicated to providing you with expert legal representation to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Our personal injury experts will thoroughly investigate your accident, and identify all the possible liable parties. We will evaluate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering, and we will egotiate with insurance companies on your behalf. If necessary, we will fight for your rights in court.
Call J. Gonzalez today at 1-800-CAR-CRASH, or contact us through this website for a free consultation.
