Deadly Two-Vehicle Crash Leaves Man Dead on Hazel Avenue 

Investigators are working to piece together all of the details of a fatal accident that occurred in Orangevale Tuesday night.

Reports included that the collision took place at 9:24 p.m. on May 31st within the 6747 block of Hazel Avenue.

Joseph Angel Mendoza, 26, was driving south in a Honda when he struck a Lexus on Hazel Avenue.

The Lexus was stopped in the left turn lane and as a result, the Honda went off the road and struck a utility pole and fence.

Sadly, Mendoza was declared dead at the scene. 

Additionally, the female driver of the Lexus sustained major injuries and was taken to a trauma center. 

Further details will be provided once an investigation is concluded.

JT Legal Group sends our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Joseph Mendoza.

Tips for after accident procedures:

• Always stop at the scene 
• Call 911 if there are any injuries 
• Get vehicle to safety if it is moveable, if it is not, put on hazards
• Exchange information with others involved and document everything 
• Call 911 to report accident – they determine who was at fault 

In 2020, studies showed that the state of California reported 3,723 motor-vehicle deaths which was an increase from 2019. 

In the U.S. one’s odds of dying in a car accident is around 1 in 107.

Always make sure to wear a seatbelt, obey traffic laws, and avoid distractions while driving.