(Montebello, CA) A pedestrian died in a 60 Freeway accident after vehicles struck them on the Pomona Freeway in Montebello.
On Sunday, August 31, at 7:45 p.m., the 60 Freeway accident occurred. According to the California Highway Patrol, it happened on the westbound 60 Freeway, under the Paramount Boulevard bridge.
Upon investigating, authorities learned witnesses first reported the pedestrian lying down on the roadway. It appeared a vehicle struck the victim. All of a sudden, the pedestrian stood up and ran into traffic lanes. Moments later, another vehicle struck them. Another witness told CHP that the pedestrian jumped from the Paramount Boulevard overpass before falling into the freeway lanes below.
CHP officers quickly responded and issued a SigAlert at 8:25 p.m. They shut down lanes one through five of the westbound 60 Freeway. At 8:46 p.m., officers reopened lanes four and five to allow limited traffic. Investigators remained on scene to gather witness statements and review the circumstances surrounding the 60 Freeway accident.
Legal Opinion on the 60 Freeway Accident
The 60 Freeway accident in Montebello involves tragic details that raise difficult legal questions. California law sets clear duties for both drivers and pedestrians. For pedestrians, California Vehicle Code 21956 prohibits walking on freeways or roadways not meant for foot traffic. California Vehicle Code 21954 also requires pedestrians outside marked crosswalks to yield the right-of-way to vehicles. The witness statements stated that the pedestrian entered freeway lanes and possibly jumped from an overpass may weigh heavily on investigators’ conclusions.
Drivers also must follow the law, even in sudden emergencies. California Vehicle Code 22350, known as the Basic Speed Law, requires drivers to travel at speeds safe for conditions. Even if a pedestrian acts unpredictably, investigators will consider whether drivers reacted properly or if they drove too fast for the traffic environment. Since one witness reported the pedestrian jumped from the overpass, authorities may consider whether the 60 Freeway accident was intentional. If so, liability may not fall on drivers. Regardless, investigators will review whether any driver acted negligently once the pedestrian entered lanes.
What the Family Can Do
The family of the deceased pedestrian may feel shocked and uncertain about their rights. If evidence shows a driver acted negligently, the family may pursue a wrongful death claim under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. This law allows close relatives to seek compensation for funeral costs, emotional loss, and the financial support the loved one provided.
If evidence suggests the pedestrian intentionally placed themselves in harm’s way, then legal options against drivers may not exist. Even in that case, the family can still request the CHP report on the 60 Freeway accident and medical examiner’s findings to gain clarity. A wrongful death attorney can help the family review the evidence, preserve their rights, and understand whether civil action is possible. While no outcome can erase the pain of this 60 Freeway accident, legal guidance may provide the family with answers, accountability, and support as they grieve.
We at Accident News Now extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim. We know this is a difficult time as you mourn the tragic and sudden loss of a loved one. If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this horrible incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
