California Injury Blog
One person was killed and another suffered major injuries in a Lancaster car accident. According to a news report in the Antelope Valley Press, the incident occurred on the morning of Sept. 4 as two pedestrians were crossing Avenue L east of 47th Street West in the Antelope Valley. Officials say a Lake Hughes resident driving a 2012 Toyota Prius was westbound, east of 47th Street West, traveling at about 40 to 50 mph. The driver told officials they did not see the people trying to cross the road because of “poor lighting conditions.”
Ongoing Investigation
One of the pedestrians suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The other was transported to an area hospital with major injuries. The driver of the Prius and witnesses stayed at the scene to render aid and waited for medical personnel to arrive. The driver was released at the scene after questioning. California Highway Patrol officials said the driver was not suspected of being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Antelope Valley CHP office at 661-948-8541.
We offer our deepest condolences to the family members of the deceased victim. We also wish the injured victim the very best for a speedy and complete recovery. Please keep those affected in your thoughts and prayers.
Causes and Compensation Issues
Based on this news report, it appears that the driver of the Prius did not see the pedestrians on the roadway because there was no sufficient lighting. We trust officials are also looking into whether the driver was distracted, careless or driving at an unsafe rate of speed. If that was the case, he or she could be held financially responsible for the injuries and damages caused.
If poor lighting caused or contributed to the incident, the government agency that was responsible for maintaining the roadway could be held liable as well. In such cases, a personal injury claim must be filed against the governmental entity within 180 days of the incident or injury under California Government Code Section 911.2. Injured victims can seek compensation for damages such as medical expenses, lost income, hospitalization, cost of rehabilitation, pain and suffering and emotional distress.
Families of deceased victims can file a wrongful death lawsuit seeking compensation for damages such as medical expenses, funeral costs, lost future income and loss of love, care and companionship. An experienced Los Angeles pedestrian accident lawyer can help injured victims and families of victims secure maximum compensation for their losses.
Source: https://www.avpress.com/news/pedestrian-hit-killed-while-crossing-street/article_5fd02f06-efe1-11ea-88e6-9b4b175032e0.html