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Winston-Salem, NC (April 16, 2023) - According to local news reports, a Winston-Salem man, Pedro Alfonzo Perez Galdamez, has been sentenced to over 26 years in prison following a fatal head-on collision that took the lives of four women. The accident, which occurred in the early morning hours of April 16, 2023, was the result of Galdamez driving while impaired and traveling in the wrong direction on US 52.
On that April night, Winston-Salem police responded to reports of a wrong-way driver heading north in the southbound lanes of US 52 near the 3rd Street bridge. Arriving at the scene, they discovered a devastating collision between Galdamez’s Honda Accord and a Nissan Sentra carrying four passengers. Tragically, three of the Sentra’s passengers—Blanca Estela Castillo Bernal, 60, Santa Hernandez Bernadino, 46, and Estefania Hernandez, 32—were pronounced dead at the scene by emergency personnel. The fourth passenger, 64-year-old Gregoria Noyola Jiminez, was transported to a nearby hospital but later succumbed to her injuries.
Authorities determined that Galdamez, who sustained minor injuries, had been drinking heavily at La Mansion bar prior to the crash. Toxicology reports showed his blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was 0.26, more than three times North Carolina’s legal limit of 0.08. Galdamez initially provided a false identity, claiming to be Giovany Alarcon Ruiz, an alias he had reportedly used for nearly two decades since entering the United States. Investigators eventually confirmed his real identity through a passport and identification card found at his home, both issued in El Salvador under the name Pedro Alfonzo Perez Galdamez.
Galdamez faced numerous charges, including four counts of second-degree murder, four counts of felony death by vehicle, and driving while impaired. In addition, he was charged with driving without a license, as authorities discovered he had never been properly licensed. On November 12, 2024, Judge Lora Cubbage sentenced Galdamez to a prison term ranging from 314 to 402 months, with credit for the time he had already spent in custody awaiting trial.
The families of the victims addressed the court during the sentencing, expressing the pain and loss they endured due to this tragic accident.
Why Hiring a Personal Injury Attorney in Winston-Salem, NC, Is Essential
When facing the aftermath of a serious accident, knowing where to turn for support is critical. Hiring a seasoned personal injury attorney in Winston-Salem, NC, can make a profound difference in the outcome of your case and the peace of mind you experience during the process. Personal injury law is complex, but an experienced attorney knows the steps to take, the questions to ask, and the best way to navigate the legal system in North Carolina to ensure you get the justice you deserve.
A personal injury attorney can handle the challenging aspects of your case, including dealing with insurance companies, gathering evidence, and assessing the true value of your claim. Many individuals attempt to negotiate their own settlements only to discover that insurance companies often prioritize their bottom line over the needs of accident victims. An attorney’s support in these discussions can be invaluable, helping to counter these tactics and negotiate for fair compensation.
If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence, an attorney can also offer critical guidance on the types of compensation available. Beyond medical expenses, you may be entitled to damages for lost wages, emotional distress, and the impact of your injuries on your daily life. Knowing what you qualify for is essential, and a Winston-Salem personal injury lawyer will help you understand all aspects of your claim.
Benefits of a Local Winston-Salem Personal Injury Attorney
A local personal injury attorney brings insight into the specific laws and procedures in North Carolina that govern personal injury claims. This knowledge can make a real difference in the approach and handling of your case. With familiarity in local courts, an attorney in Winston-Salem can anticipate potential legal challenges and provide you with informed counsel every step of the way.
With their reputation on the line, local attorneys are also motivated to achieve the best outcomes for their clients. A Winston-Salem attorney is often directly involved in the community, understanding local issues, and committed to serving those affected by negligence.
Winston-Salem Car Accident Lawyers: Understanding How They Can Help
A car accident can turn your world upside down in seconds, and finding support becomes a priority. Winston-Salem car accident lawyers focus on helping victims rebuild their lives by managing the legal side of things so you can concentrate on recovery. These attorneys are skilled in investigating car accidents, gathering evidence, and constructing a case that highlights the damages and losses you've suffered.
The process of filing a car accident claim often involves numerous steps, including dealing with insurance adjusters, gathering police and medical reports, and even consulting with accident reconstruction experts. An experienced Winston-Salem car accident attorney will take on these responsibilities, streamlining the process and allowing you to focus on what matters most—healing.
Car accident lawyers are also instrumental in securing financial compensation for medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and emotional suffering. They have the experience to identify the tactics insurance companies may use to downplay or deny claims, and they’ll work diligently to counteract those strategies, ensuring that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
The Role of a Winston-Salem Car Accident Lawyer in Severe Injury Cases
In cases involving severe injuries, car accident lawyers provide essential support to help victims adjust to life changes resulting from the accident. They understand the emotional, physical, and financial toll a serious injury can bring, and they are there to help you recover fair compensation for the significant impact on your life. By building a solid case that emphasizes the full scope of your losses, a car accident lawyer maximizes the potential for a favorable outcome.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a serious accident, a Winston-Salem car accident lawyer is there to offer compassionate, professional support to pursue justice. They will ensure you aren’t left facing an uncertain future alone and advocate for your rights and well-being at every turn.
How Rosensteel Fleishman Can Help After a Winston-Salem Car Accident
Following a tragic accident, victims and their families need trusted guidance to pursue justice and secure the resources they need to rebuild. Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers have extensive experience representing accident victims across North Carolina, including in cases like the recent Winston-Salem incident. For families coping with loss or victims struggling with injury-related challenges, Rosensteel Fleishman offers the knowledgeable and compassionate support necessary to manage the legal aftermath effectively.
Rosensteel Fleishman attorneys assist with all aspects of the personal injury claim process, from initial consultations to gathering evidence, working with medical professionals, and negotiating with insurance companies. With a focus on maximizing compensation, they have helped countless clients in North Carolina secure settlements that address both immediate and long-term needs. Whether you’re dealing with hospital bills, lost income, or emotional distress, they understand the complexities of these cases and work tirelessly to secure a fair outcome.
Why You Should Choose Rosensteel Fleishman for Your Car Accident and Injury Case
Choosing the right personal injury and car accident law firm can make all the difference in achieving justice and getting your life back on track. Rosensteel Fleishman stands out among North Carolina personal injury firms due to their commitment to clients, depth of knowledge, and success record in cases just like yours. With both Corey Rosensteel and Matthew Fleishman at the helm, the firm has earned a reputation for providing effective legal support with genuine empathy for their clients’ needs.
“Our team understands the emotional and physical toll a car accident takes on our clients,” says Corey Rosensteel. “We work closely with each person to create a strategy that is tailored to their unique circumstances, ensuring they receive the best possible outcome.”
From Charlotte to Winston-Salem, the team at Rosensteel Fleishman offers dedicated, localized support, drawing from years of experience with North Carolina's legal landscape. They bring a personal approach to each case, emphasizing clear communication and accessibility, so you’re never left in the dark. They are ready to help you find a path forward, providing experienced counsel and a track record of success that gives clients confidence in their legal journey.
Get Help Today With a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in an accident or have lost a loved one, Rosensteel Fleishman is here to provide the legal support you need. They offer free consultations to discuss your case, answer questions, and help you understand your options without any pressure. To get started, call 1-704-714-1450 and speak with a dedicated attorney who can guide you through the steps toward securing justice and financial recovery.
Don’t wait to find the support you need. Reach out to Rosensteel Fleishman Car Accident & Injury Lawyers today and take the first step toward healing.
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