(Huntington Beach, CA) A 71-year-old man was struck and killed early Monday morning, December 1, in a Springdale Street collision after being hit by a pickup truck while crossing the street.
According to the Huntington Beach Police Department, the crash occurred around 6:25 a.m. at Springdale Street and Brannen Drive. Investigators said Kurt George Nickel, a Huntington Beach resident, was walking in the area. At some point, a Ford F-250 pickup driven by a 37-year-old man traveling northbound on Springdale Street struck him.
Emergency responders arrived and provided aid, but Nickel died at the scene from his injuries. Police said the driver remained at the scene and cooperated fully with investigators. Authorities did not suspect the driver of being impaired.
Overview on the Springdale Street Collision
In fatal pedestrian accidents, investigators review several key traffic safety laws to determine contributing factors. The Pedestrian Right-of-Way Law requires drivers to yield to pedestrians crossing within a marked or unmarked crosswalk at intersections. However, pedestrians must also exercise caution and not suddenly enter the path of oncoming vehicles.
The Duty to Exercise Due Care Law reinforces that drivers must remain alert and take every reasonable measure to prevent collisions, especially during early morning or low-light conditions.
Additionally, the Basic Speed Law requires motorists to maintain speeds that are safe for the current traffic and weather conditions. These statutes will help authorities determine the circumstances surrounding the Springdale Street collision.
Support for Nickel’s Family
The family of Kurt George Nickel should remain in contact with the Huntington Beach Police Department’s Major Accident Investigation Team for updates and to obtain the official collision report once it becomes available. This document will contain important details to help clarify what happened and assist with insurance or legal proceedings.
Families who lose a loved one in a pedestrian crash may also qualify for assistance from the California Victim Compensation Board, which provides help with funeral expenses, counseling, and other financial needs.
It may also be beneficial to speak with a wrongful-death attorney who specializes in pedestrian accidents to understand potential legal rights and next steps.
During this difficult time, the Nickel family is encouraged to seek comfort and emotional support from local community resources, such as grief counseling services and support groups in Orange County, to help navigate the loss of Nickel.
If you have any concerns about navigating the legal process surrounding this incident, call 866-883-4318 to speak with a lawyer.
