(Los Angeles, CA) A man identified by family as 30-year-old Gerardo Estrada lost his life in a Figueroa Street accident Friday evening after being struck by an LAPD patrol vehicle in the Highland Park neighborhood.
On Friday, September 19, at around 7:23 p.m., the Figueroa Street accident occurred near the intersection of Woodside Drive by Sycamore Grove Park. According to police, Estrada was riding his skateboard southbound in the center of the road when a northbound LAPD patrol car struck him.
Officers reported that the police vehicle had activated lights and sirens while responding to a call and was passing traffic in the center lane at the time of impact. Estrada sustained blunt force injuries, authorities pronouncing him dead at the scene. On Saturday evening, loved ones held a vigil at the site of the collision in Estrada’s memory. Investigators continue to review the circumstances surrounding the Figueroa Street accident.
Estrada’s family set up a GoFundMe page to help cover funeral expenses.
Legal Perspective on the Figueroa Street Accident
This tragic case involves unique legal questions because a law enforcement vehicle caused the fatal crash. California law provides both protections for emergency responders and rights for victims’ families.
One important statute is California Vehicle Code 21055, which allows emergency vehicles to disregard some traffic rules when responding to calls, provided their lights and sirens are active. In this case, LAPD confirmed the patrol car had both engaged. However, this exemption is not unlimited.
That brings California Vehicle Code 21056 into play. It states that even during emergency responses, drivers of emergency vehicles must operate with due regard for the safety of all road users. If the patrol officer failed to take reasonable care to avoid Estrada, liability may exist.
Additionally, California Government Code Section 815.2 allows public entities like the City of Los Angeles to be held liable for the negligence of their employees acting within the scope of employment. This means Estrada’s family may have grounds to bring a wrongful death claim against the city.
Because Estrada died, California Code of Civil Procedure 377.60 grants surviving family members a path forward. They can file a wrongful death lawsuit, which can help recover funeral expenses and loss of financial support.
Guidance for Estrada’s Family
For Gerardo Estrada’s loved ones, this loss is heartbreaking. Speaking with an attorney who specializes in wrongful death and government liability cases can help them understand their options. A lawyer can obtain official reports and review body-worn camera footage.
While police vehicles may use sirens and lights to respond quickly, they must still prioritize public safety. Estrada’s family has the right to pursue justice through a civil claim, which can provide financial support and accountability. Taking timely legal action will ensure crucial evidence is preserved. Doing so will give Gerardo Estrada’s family a clear path forward following the devastating Figueroa Street accident.
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.
