(Claremont, CA) A Foothill (210) Freeway collision resulted in the death of Tracy Willis, 65, in Claremont after a two-vehicle crash on Saturday morning.
On Saturday, September 6, at 8:00 a.m., the Foothill (210) Freeway collision occurred. According to the California Highway Patrol, it happened on the eastbound side of the freeway west of Monte Vista Avenue.
Upon investigation, authorities stated a brown Mini Cooper became disabled and stopped, unoccupied, on the right shoulder of the freeway. A white Ford Focus sedan then drifted toward the shoulder and rear-ended the Mini Cooper. The crash caused severe injuries to Tracy Willis. Paramedics arrived quickly and transported the man to a hospital. Despite medical efforts, doctors pronounced him dead at 8:25 a.m.
Following the crash, CHP issued a SigAlert at 8:26 a.m. that shut down lanes three and four of the eastbound freeway. Crews worked to investigate and clear the scene. Officials reopened both lanes at 9:35 a.m. The Foothill (210) Freeway collision disrupted morning traffic in the Claremont area and left authorities continuing to examine the circumstances of the deadly crash. Officials confirmed the incident remains under investigation.
Legal Opinion on the Foothill (210) Freeway Collision
The fatal Foothill (210) Freeway collision raises important legal issues about responsibility when a vehicle becomes disabled on a freeway. The Mini Cooper had stopped on the right shoulder, and the Ford Focus drifted into it, causing the fatal crash. One key law is California Vehicle Code 21718. It prohibits stopping or parking on a freeway, except in emergencies or when the vehicle is disabled. If the Mini Cooper stopped because of a genuine mechanical failure, the driver likely complied with the law. If not, liability may arise. At the same time, California Vehicle Code 22107 requires drivers to make lane changes or movements only when safe. Drifting into the shoulder without control could violate this law. Authorities will review whether the Focus driver became distracted, fatigued, or impaired.
The Basic Speed Law, California Vehicle Code 22350, also applies. Even if a driver follows the speed limit, they must travel at a safe speed for conditions. If the Focus driver failed to maintain control due to speed, this could strengthen the liability argument. Because the Focus driver died, the case shifts toward a wrongful death analysis. If investigators find negligence from the Mini Cooper driver in leaving the car improperly, that driver may face civil liability. On the other hand, if distraction or unsafe movement from the Focus driver caused the crash, liability may not extend beyond him.
What the Family Can Do
The family of Tracy Willis has rights under California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60. This law allows them to bring a wrongful death claim against any responsible party. Compensation may include funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and loss of financial support. The family should obtain the full CHP report on the Foothill (210) collision, medical records, and any witness statements. If the Mini Cooper stopped without legal justification or hazard lights, the attorney may argue that the driver created a dangerous condition. Conversely, if investigators find the Ford Focus drifted due to distraction or impairment, liability may rest solely with him. A wrongful death attorney can guide the family through this process. While no legal action can undo the tragedy, pursuing accountability may provide financial support and closure during this painful time.
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.
