An elderly pedestrian who was killed in a San Bernardino car accident on January 6, 2010, has been identified as 81-year-old Sumiko Maria Thomas. The Victorville Daily Press reports that Thomas was walking near the intersection of Country Club Drive and Makai Court, in Victorville, when she was hit by a 2005 Cadillac CTS. The critically injured pedestrian was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced dead.
My heart goes out to the family and friends of Sumiko Maria Thomas for their sudden and shocking loss. I offer my deepest condolences to everyone who knew and loved her. They will be in my prayers.
Pedestrian Accidents
There were two fatalities and 22 injuries involving pedestrian accidents in Victorville, according to CHP's 2007 traffic accident statistics. Countywide, 50 deaths and 432 injuries were reported as a result of pedestrian accidents during the same year.
Car Accident Liability Issues
It's not very clear how or why this pedestrian accident occurred. The news report does not state whether Thomas was walking in a marked crosswalk. California Vehicle Code Section 21950 states: "The driver of a vehicle shall yield the right-of-way to a pedestrian crossing the roadway within any marked crosswalk or within any unmarked crosswalk at an intersection." The same section also states that the driver of a vehicle approaching a pedestrian within any marked or unmarked crosswalk "shall exercise all due care and shall reduce the speed of a vehicle or take any other action relating to the operating of the vehicle as necessary to safeguard the safety of the pedestrian."
If Thomas was walking in a crosswalk, then the driver could be held liable for failing to yield right-of-way to the pedestrian. In such cases, an experienced California personal injury lawyer can help by staying on top of the investigation and making sure the victims' or their families' legal rights are protected. A knowledgeable car accident lawyer will also help determine whether a dangerous or defective roadway caused the accident. If this accident was the result of a dangerous condition on the roadway, the city or governmental agency responsible for maintaining the roadway could be held liable as well. Please remember that any claim against a governmental entity in California must be 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.
SLS Consulting