Robert Kotob, 70, of San Gabriel remains in critical condition after a car accident near Jefferson Middle School. According to a report in The Pasadena Star-News, the major injury collision occurred at the intersection of East Las Tunas Drive and Burton Avenue, the morning of September 18, 2012. Officials are still looking for witnesses who may have seen exactly how this collision occurred. The driver was a San Gabriel resident and a parent who was about to drop off her child at school. Kotob had recently been hired as a crossing guard. He suffered traumatic injuries and broken bones. Police do not expect charges to be filed against the driver unless the victim dies from his injuries. Anyone with information is asked to call police at 626-308-2859.
My heart goes out to Robert Kotob, who has suffered severe, life-threatening injuries in this accident. I wish him the very best for a complete recovery. He will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol’s 2010 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System (SWITRS), there were no fatalities, but 16 injuries reported as a result of pedestrian accidents in San Gabriel. In Los Angeles County as a whole, pedestrian collisions claimed 195 lives and injured 4,535 people, during the same year.
Caution in School Zones
Based on this news article, it is unclear as to what caused the motorist to strike the crossing guard at the intersection. Officials say alcohol and drugs were not factors. However, I trust they are looking into whether speed, distracted driving or inattention may have caused or contributed to this incident. Motorists are required to yield the right of way to pedestrians in crosswalks under California Vehicle Code Section 21950. In addition, motorists are required to exercise due care and caution while driving in a school zone when children are present.
Fault and Liability
In this particular case, if the driver is determined to have been at fault, then, she can be held liable for the injuries and damages caused, even if she is not cited or charged. A knowledgeable Los Angeles personal injury lawyer will be able to determine whether a dangerous condition at the intersection was a factor in this incident. If that was the case, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway can also be held liable. Under California Government Code Section 911.2, any personal injury or wrongful death claim against a governmental entity must be filed within 180 days of the incident.
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