California Injury Blog
Darin Wells, 44, was killed in a Newport Beach pedestrian accident after a car struck him near a street intersection.
According to a news report in The Orange County Register, the fatal collision occurred near Newport Boulevard south of Industrial Way early morning on August 26, 2015.
Investigators said a woman driving a black Audi A3 sedan south on Newport Boulevard struck Wells.
It is not clear if Wells was trying to cross the street or if he was hit on the road’s shoulder. The driver remained at the scene and was not arrested or cited pending an investigation.
Anyone who witnessed this fatal pedestrian accident is asked to call Newport Beach police at 949-644-3747.
Our heartfelt condolences go out to the family members and friends of Darin Wells for their tragic and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2013 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were no fatalities, but 22 injuries reported in the city of Newport Beach as a result of pedestrian accidents.
In Orange County as a whole, 52 people died and 784 were injured due to pedestrian accidents during the same year.
What Caused This Fatal Crash?
Based on this news report, it is unclear as to what caused this pedestrian crash. There are a number of unanswered questions here.
Was the driver impaired, distracted or fatigued at the time of the crash? Did the motorist strike the pedestrian who was legally walking on the shoulder? Was the driver speeding or driving recklessly? Did the pedestrian attempt to cross the street illegally? Was there a dangerous roadway condition, which may have caused or contributed to the collision?
We trust officials are looking into precisely what caused this fatal crash.
Liability Issues
If the motorist is determined to have been at fault, she can be held liable for the victim’s wrongful death. A knowledgeable Newport Beach personal injury lawyer will also be able to determine whether a dangerous or defective roadway condition caused or contributed to the incident.
If that was the case, the city can be held liable as well. Any claim against a governmental entity must be filed within 180 days of the incident, under California Government Code 911.2. The best personal injury law firms will always offer a free consultation and comprehensive case evaluation to injured victims and their families.