Citrus Heights, CA — According to ABC10, a 60-year-old man was struck and killed by a vehicle Wednesday evening, September 25, 2024, while attempting to cross Auburn Boulevard. The accident occurred around 7:55 PM, just south of Manzanita Avenue.
According to initial reports, the man allegedly darted across the road in front of an oncoming vehicle traveling southbound on Auburn Boulevard. The driver, who was with a passenger in the car, was unable to avoid hitting the pedestrian. CHP noted that the impact caused the man to suffer severe blunt force trauma to his head and body, leading to fatal injuries.
Emergency responders arrived quickly, but the man was pronounced dead at the scene. His identity has not yet been released, though authorities have confirmed he was in his 60s.
The driver involved in the collision stayed at the scene and cooperated with investigators. Officials have stated that the driver showed no signs of impairment, and there is no indication that drugs or alcohol played a role in the accident.
Authorities have not yet released further details about the man involved, pending notification of his family.
Partial Liability in Pedestrian Accidents
California Law does not consider pedestrians to have the right-of-way under all circumstances, such as if they attempt to cross outside of a crosswalk. However, motorists are never relieved of the expectation to provide pedestrians with a Duty of Care toward their safety.
It may therefore be determined that a motorist is held only partially liable in a pedestrian accident. If that is the case, they would be financially responsible for the victim’s recovery costs in proportion to their degree of liability.
Pedestrian Fatalities and Wrongful Death Claims
Drivers have a specific “Duty of Care” towards pedestrians, who are particularly vulnerable in traffic accidents. This responsibility includes being vigilant for pedestrians near the roadway and, if a fatal collision occurs, staying with the victim, alerting emergency responders, and cooperating with authorities investigating the crash.
For those who lose a loved one in a pedestrian accident, filing a Wrongful Death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney can provide compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, and other related damages.
If the at-fault driver avoids legal consequences, compensation might still be available through a family member’s uninsured driver coverage. Consulting with a personal injury attorney can help determine the best options in such cases.
