Beverly Frantz, 49, was killed in a Fullerton car accident after she was struck by two vehicles while walking across West Orangethorpe Avenue. The Orange County Register reports that the fatal pedestrian accident occurred the night of January 28, 2010 when Frantz was crossing in the 2600 block of Orangethorpe. Frantz was transported to a local hospital in critical condition, but died a few hours after the incident. Investigators are still looking into what caused this accident.
I offer my deepest condolences to everyone who knew and loved Beverly Frantz. My heart goes out to her family and friends. Please keep them in your prayers.
Pedestrian Accident Statistics
According to California Highway Patrol's 2007 Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System, there were no fatalities, but 57 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in Fullerton. Countywide, pedestrian accidents claimed 41 lives and caused 726 injuries during the same year. Also in 2007, there were 178 deaths and 14,185 injuries in Orange County as a result of traffic accidents.
What Caused this Fatal Accident?
This news report leaves a number of questions unanswered. Where exactly was Frantz walking at the time of the pedestrian accident? Was she in a marked/unmarked crosswalk or at an intersection? Was she walking in traffic lanes? Was either one of the drivers impaired, speeding, distracted or negligent in any way?
Laws and Liability Issues
Motorists have the responsibility to yield right-of-way to pedestrians at crosswalks and intersections. That said, pedestrians also have the responsibility to yield right-of-way to an oncoming vehicle. So, in such cases, it is important to determine fault and negligence. If there is negligence or wrongdoing involved, families of deceased car accidents may file what is known as a wrongful death claim seeking compensation for funeral expenses, lost earnings, loss of love and companionship, and other related damages.
An experienced Orange County personal injury lawyer will also be able to advise injured victims or their families about insurance coverage issues. A skilled car accident lawyer will be able to determine whether a dangerous condition on the roadway caused or contributed to the incident. If that was the case, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining that roadway could also be held liable. Any such claim against a California governmental entity must be properly filed within 180 days of the accident or injury.
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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