[01-04-2026] Madera County, CA – 77-Year-Old Woman Dies After Crash on Highway 145 Near Highway 41

A 77-year-old woman died from injuries sustained in a crash involving a U-turn on Highway 145 in Madera County on Sunday night, January 4, 2026.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the crash occurred just before 10:30 p.m. when a 22-year-old woman driving a Volkswagen Jetta westbound on Highway 145 pulled over to the right shoulder with the intent to make a U-turn and proceed eastbound. 

As the 22-year-old attempted the turn, she did not see a 62-year-old man driving a 2022 Volkswagen Taos, who was approaching from behind. The left front of the Jetta collided with the right front of the Taos.

Both vehicles sustained major damage, and all occupants were transported to the hospital with moderate to major injuries. 

On January 5, CHP reported that the 77-year-old woman, a passenger in the Taos, had died due to her injuries.

The investigation is ongoing.

Don’t Know What To Do After An Accident?

Your safety and rights depend on what you do next after an accident. Remember the following steps if you find yourself in one:

• Check yourself for any injuries.
• Stay on the scene, call 9-1-1, and wait for emergency responders.
• Move your vehicle to the road shoulder if safe; turn on hazard lights.
• Fully cooperate with law enforcement and stay until cleared to leave.
• Document the scene and injuries with photos and videos.
• Seek immediate medical attention.
• Contact your insurance company and find a personal injury lawyer for legal advice.

What A Lawyer Can Do For You

Many victims put off calling a lawyer even if they sustain injuries after an accident. However, lawyers can help you in many ways. They can provide you with police reports, CCTV footage, and witness statements to strengthen your case. Your attorney will also negotiate with insurance companies to get you fair compensation. The best part is that they will do all of these things for you at no upfront cost. So if you’re injured in an accident, hire a personal injury attorney to recover medical bills, car repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering.