Gilbert Nunez, 63, was killed in a San Bernardino car accident after he was struck by a vehicle early morning on July 17, 2010. According to a news report in the San Bernardino County Sun, Nunez was walking near Washington Street and Meadow Lane, when a vehicle that was going east on Washington struck him. Nunez died from his injuries. This fatal pedestrian accident is being investigated by the Colton Police Department.
I offer my deepest condolences to the family and friends of Gilbert Nunez for their tremendous and heartbreaking loss. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers.
Pedestrian Accidents
According to California Highway Patrol's 2008 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), one fatality and eight injuries were reported involving pedestrian accidents in Colton. In San Bernardino County as a whole, 39 people died and 432 were injured as a result of pedestrian accidents in 2008.
Accident Causes
Based on this news report, it is not entirely clear how or why this fatal car crash occurred. There are several questions here. Where was Nunez walking at the time? Was he crossing the street or walking on the side of the road? Was the motorist who hit him impaired, distracted, speeding or otherwise negligent at the time of the accident? Was there a dangerous condition on the roadway, which caused or contributed to this fatal accident? I trust officials are looking at these and other factors in order to determine exactly what occurred here.
Who Should be Held Liable?
If the driver was at fault in this case, then, he or she could be held liable for Nunez's wrongful death. In cases where negligence or wrongdoing is involved, families of deceased accident victims can file a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for funeral expenses, lost future earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.
Families in such cases would be well-advised to consult with an experienced San Bernardino personal injury lawyer, who will stay on top of the investigation and ensure that their legal rights and best interests are protected. A skilled car accident lawyer will also be able to determine whether a dangerous roadway caused or contributed to the crash. If that was the case, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining that roadway could also be held liable. Please remember that any personal injury or wrongful death claim against a California governmental entity must be filed within 180 days of the accident or injury.
What are some of the most dangerous roadways for pedestrians in your city or neighborhood?
The BISNAR|CHASE personal injury law firm is not representing any of the parties mentioned in this article at the time the article was posted. Our information source is cited in the article. If you were involved in this incident or a similar incident and have questions as to your rights and options, call us or another reputable law firm. Do not act solely upon the information provided herein. Get a consultation. The best law firms will provide a free consultation. We provide a free, confidential consultation to not at fault persons named in this article. The free consultation offer extends to family members as well.
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